Kustha / Kuth / Costus Root

Sanskrit: कुष्ठ • Botanical: Saussurea lappa C.B. Clarke

Highly aromatic root used since ancient times. Now protected. Extensively used in skin diseases and respiratory disorders.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Tikta, Katu, Madhura
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna
Potency (Virya)
Ushna
Key Constituents
Essential oil (1.5-2%), Costunolide (sesquiterpene lactone), Dehydrocostus lactone, Saussurea lactone, Inulin
Also Known As
Sanskrit: कुष्ठ, रोगघ्न, पारिभद्र, वाप्य
Hindi: कूठ, कुठ, कुड

What is Kustha / Kuth / Costus Root?

Highly aromatic root used since ancient times. Now protected. Extensively used in skin diseases and respiratory disorders.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vata-Kapha Shamaka
  • Kushtha hara (skin diseases)
  • Krimighna
  • Kasa-Shwasa hara
  • Vishaghna
  • Deepana, Pachana
  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Kustha / Kuth / Costus Root by Condition

Explore how Kustha / Kuth / Costus Root is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

⟶
Kustha / Kuth / Costus Root for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.