Asteraceae
Costus Root
Saussurea lappa
⚠ Use with Caution
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: Kashmir, Himalayas
Also known as: Kuth, Putchuk, Indian Costus, Saussurea
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Asthma (costunolide bronchodilator), bronchitis, digestive complaints, intestinal parasites, rheumatic conditions. Traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine respiratory herb. Endangered — use sustainably sourced only.
Herbal Actions
Bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory, carminative, antifungal, antiflatulent
Active Constituents
Sesquiterpene lactones (dehydrocostus lactone, costunolide — primary), volatile oil (costuslactone, alpha-isocomene), alkaloids
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried root per 250ml, simmer 15 min, 2x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 2–3x daily |
| Notes | CITES listed — endangered. Use only certified sustainably cultivated sources. Combine with elecampane for chronic bronchitis. Costunolide has significant research backing for anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Endangered species — source ethically. Avoid in pregnancy. Contact sensitizer (sesquiterpene lactones). Avoid in Asteraceae allergy.
Side Effects: Contact dermatitis (sesquiterpene lactone sensitization). GI irritation. Generally well tolerated at therapeutic doses.