Costus Root
Saussurea costus
T Traditional useThe root known as costus (kust-i hindi). It shows antimicrobial effects in the lab; there are no human studies, and fakes carry a serious kidney poisoning risk.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Costus root comes from Saussurea costus of the Himalayas and is used in traditional medicine for respiratory infections and digestion. Lab studies show antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects; there are no controlled human studies. It has historically been confused with Aristolochia roots, which contain aristolochic acid causing kidney failure and cancer. The plant is protected and its trade restricted.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Lab studies showed antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects; not shown in humans. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for digestive complaints. [1]
How is it used?
Food
Traditionally a very small amount (a knife tip) of powder is taken mixed with honey.
Amount: Once daily
Duration limit: 1 week
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 18 years
- Fakes containing Aristolochia can cause serious kidney damage and urinary tract cancer; use only species-verified, tested products.
- May cause allergy in people allergic to the daisy family.
- Do not use in pregnancy, while breastfeeding or under 18.
- Dripping the oil into the nose or throat is not recommended.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Allergic reaction
- Stomach upset
- Kidney damage with adulterated products
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Saussurea costus is listed in CITES Appendix I for endangered species; its trade is strictly controlled. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does costus help infections?
Only lab studies exist; no effect has been shown in humans.
Is costus safe?
There are few safety data on genuine Saussurea root; fakes carry a serious kidney risk.
Are kust-i hindi and kust-i bahri the same?
Usually names for the same root in different colours or processing; species checks matter.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Costus Root (Saussurea costus). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/costus-root/
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