Costus (Kuth)
Dolomiaea costus
| Synonym | Saussurea costus, Saussurea lappa |
|---|---|
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Sanskrit | Kushtha |
| हिंदी | कूठ |
| മലയാളം | കൊട്ടം |
| Parts used | root |
Protected / restricted — not offered — CITES Appendix I; protected under Wild Life (Protection) Act
Costus, or kuth, is a tall perennial herb of the thistle family with large lobed leaves and dark purple flower heads, growing from a thick, aromatic root. It is native to the alpine slopes of the western Himalayas, including Kashmir, and parts of China. It was formerly classified as Saussurea costus.
The aromatic root, called Kushtha in Ayurveda, has been used since ancient times in traditional skin and respiratory preparations, incense and perfumery. Over-collection has made it rare, and it is listed on CITES Appendix I and protected in India, so it is restricted in trade and not offered here.
Articles are for general information about Ayurveda and personal care and are not medical advice. For any health condition, please see a qualified doctor.
