Botanical Overview
Saussurea costus, commonly known as Costus root, Kuth, or Kuth root, belongs to the Asteraceae family. The medicinally used part is primarily the root. Native to the Himalayan region including India, China, and Pakistan, this plant has a long history in traditional medicine systems.
Energetics
Saussurea costus is considered warming and drying, with tastes that are bitter, pungent, and aromatic. Its energetics include descending and outward directionality, with tonifying properties mostly acting on the qi.
Primary Actions
- Expectorant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Stimulant
- Carminative
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Infections
Syndromes
- Respiratory congestion
- Digestive insufficiency
- Chronic inflammation
TCM
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Coldness in lungs
Syndromes
- Lung qi deficiency
- Cold-phlegm obstructing lungs
Ayurveda
- Cough
- Cold
- Digestive upset
- Kapha imbalance
Syndromes
- Kapha disorders
- Ama accumulation
- Vata disorders
Unani
- Cough
- Cold
- Stomachache
- Bloating
Syndromes
- Safra (bile) imbalance
- Balgham (phlegm) disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains essential oils, sesquiterpene lactones including costunolide and dehydrocostus lactone, and alkaloids which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powdered root: 1-2 grams, 1-2 times daily
- Decoction: 2-4 grams of root, 1-2 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 50% ethanol, 2-4 mL, 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use cautiously in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. May cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Avoid excessive doses to prevent gastrointestinal upset. Possible interactions include potentiation of anticoagulants and interactions with respiratory depressants.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers documented for Saussurea costus in established sources.
Selected References
- Saussurea costus: Pharmacology and Traditional Uses – Singh et al., 2015
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 1: Saussurea costus – WHO, 1999
- Saussurea costus in Traditional Chinese Medicine – Bensky, Clavey & Stoger, 2004
- Pharmacognosy of Saussurea costus – Khan & Ahmad, 2010