Costus

Saussurea costus

Physical Characteristics

Saussurea costus is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The aromatic root is sometimes used as a spice[183]. It has a characteristic penetrating odour reminiscent of violet, orris and vetiver[183].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antibacterial Antispasmodic Aphrodisiac Carminative Emmenagogue Skin Stimulant Tonic Vermifuge Costus is a commonly used medicinal herb in China and is considered to be one of their 50 fundamental herbs[218]. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine where it is valued mainly for its tonic, stimulant and antiseptic properties[254]. It is said to be aphrodisiac and to be able to prevent the hair turning grey[254]. The root is anodyne, antibacterial, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, skin, stimulant, stomachic, tonic and vermifuge[61, 147, 176, 218]. It is used internally in the treatment of abdominal distension and pain, chest pains due to liver problems and jaundice, gall bladder pain, constipation associated with energy stagnation, and asthma[238]. The root is harvested in the autumn or spring and either dried for later use or decocted for the essential oil[238]. It is normally used with other herbs[218]. The root is also used in Tibetan medicine where it is considered to have an acrid, sweet and bitter taste with a neutral potency[241]. It is used in the treatment of swelling and fullness of the stomach, blockage and irregular menses, pulmonary disorders, difficulty in swallowing and rotting/wasting of muscle tissues[241]. An oil from the root is very beneficial in the treatment of rheumatism[211].

Known Hazards

None known