Kuth (Costus Root) Ayurveda Benefits & Uses
Discover Kuth root benefits and how Costus root is used in Ayurvedic herbs, plus safety, evidence, and smart-use tips. Clear guide with FAQs and sources.
Written by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 5th Dec, 2025
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Introduction
Many people explore Ayurvedic herbs to support digestive comfort, breathing, and overall wellness. One time-tested option you may come across is Kuth, also known as Costus root. Curious about Kuth root benefits, how it’s used, and whether it’s right for you? This guide explains what Kuth is, what tradition and modern research suggest, how to use it wisely, and key safety points, so you can make an informed choice.
What Is Kuth (Costus Root)?
Kuth is the common name for the dried root of Saussurea costus (also known as Saussurea lappa or Aucklandia lappa), a plant in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, Unani, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. The root is aromatic and contains natural compounds called sesquiterpene lactones, especially costunolide and dehydrocostus lactone, which give it a characteristic fragrance and have been studied for biological activity in lab settings.
Key Points:
• Botanical identity: Saussurea costus (syn. Saussurea lappa, Aucklandia lappa), family Asteraceae.
• Traditional forms: Powder (churna), decoction (kwath), herbal oil, capsules, and tinctures.
• Aroma and taste: Warm, aromatic, slightly bitter, often blended with other herbs.
Important note on plant confusion: The name “costus” can also refer to other species (for example, Costus speciosus or Costus igneus). These are different plants with different profiles. When shopping, look for the botanical name Saussurea costus or Aucklandia lappa to ensure you’re getting the traditional Kuth used in Ayurveda.
Kuth In Ayurveda: How Is It Traditionally Used?
In Ayurvedic texts and practice, Kuth is considered an aromatic, warming herb often used to:
Support digestion (for feelings of sluggish digestion, gas, or bloating)
Promote comfort in the chest and throat
• Address occasional skin and scalp concerns when used in herbal oils
• Balance excess “Kapha” and “Vata” qualities
Practitioners may combine Kuth with complementary Ayurvedic herbs to tailor formulas for the individual.
What Does Modern Research Say?
Modern evidence on Costus root is still limited, and most studies are laboratory or animal-based. Research on Saussurea costus and its main constituents (costunolide and dehydrocostus lactone) suggests:
• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions in lab models
• Antimicrobial activity against certain microbes in vitro
• Possible effects on smooth muscle and bile flow in preclinical models
What this means for you: These findings help explain some traditional uses, particularly for digestive comfort and topical use in oils. However, well-designed human clinical trials are limited. Kuth should not be used to diagnose, treat, or cure diseases, and it’s best approached as a traditional herb with evolving scientific interest.
Consult a Top General Physician
Potential Kuth Root Benefits And Uses
Below are areas where Kuth is commonly discussed, with a realistic look at the evidence.
Digestive Comfort
• Traditional perspective: Used to kindle digestive fire, ease gas and bloating, and support appetite.
• Research snapshot: Aromatic bitter roots like Costus root show carminative and bile-supporting actions in preclinical studies. Human evidence remains limited.
• Practical take: Some people use Kuth-containing formulas before or after meals for occasional digestive discomfort. If you have ulcers, gallstones, or chronic GI conditions, speak with your clinician first.
Respiratory Support
• Traditional perspective: Often included in herbal blends with honey or warm water for a heavy chest, throat irritation, or seasonal transitions.
• Research snapshot: Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties seen in lab studies may support the traditional use. Clinical proof in humans is not yet strong.
• Practical take: For mild, occasional throat or chest discomfort, some people use Costus root as part of a broader plan that includes hydration, rest, and humidified air.
Skin And Topical Use
• Traditional perspective: Herbal oils prepared with Kuth are used externally to comfort the skin or scalp.
• Research snapshot: The root’s aromatic compounds have antimicrobial activity in lab settings. However, sesquiterpene lactones in Costus root can trigger skin allergies in sensitive people.
• Practical take: Patch test first. If you develop redness or itching, stop using it and consult a clinician.
Where Kuth Fits Among Ayurvedic Herbs?
• Ayurvedic practitioners often combine Kuth with synergistic herbs (for example, ginger, black pepper, licorice, or haritaki) to balance warmth, movement, and moisture in the body. As with many Ayurvedic herbs, a personalized approach matters: the right preparation, timing, and dose can vary from person to person.
Safety, Side Effects, And Who Should Avoid It?
While many people tolerate Kuth well, it’s important to use it wisely.
Possible Side Effects
• Allergic reactions: Saussurea costus belongs to the Asteraceae family (daisy, ragweed). People with known allergies to this family may be more likely to react.
• Skin irritation: Costus oil and the root’s lactones can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.
• Stomach upset: Rarely, some may notice heartburn or digestive discomfort.
Who Should Seek or Avoid Medical Advice First?
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Safety is not well established; avoid unless your clinician recommends otherwise.
• Children: Use only under guidance from a qualified pediatric clinician or Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Allergy-prone individuals: If you’re sensitive to ragweed or other Asteraceae plants, proceed with caution or avoid them.
• Chronic conditions: If you have gallstones, liver disease, chronic GI conditions, asthma, or are immunocompromised, consult your healthcare provider first.
• Medications: Interactions are not well-documented. If you take prescription drugs (especially those with a narrow therapeutic window), anticoagulants, or have scheduled surgery, talk with your healthcare provider before using Costus root.
How To Use Costus Root? Forms And Smart Selection
Common Forms
• Powder (churna): Mixed with warm water, honey, or ghee as advised by a practitioner.
• Decoction (kwath/tea): Simmered root used as a traditional tea.
• Capsules/tablets: Convenient dosing from standardized products.
• Herbal oils: Used externally for scalp or skin massage.
• Tinctures: Alcohol-based extracts (check concentration and dose).
Dosage Guidance
• Dosage depends on the form, concentration, and your health status. Traditional texts and pharmacopeias describe gram-range daily amounts for dried root preparations, but products vary widely. Follow product labels and, ideally, a qualified clinician’s guidance.
Quality And Purity Checklist
• Choose products that list the botanical name: Saussurea costus (Aucklandia lappa).
• Look for third-party testing (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab, or an equivalent) for identity, potency, and contaminants.
• Review the ingredient list for essential oil content if you have sensitive skin.
• Buy from reputable brands with transparent sourcing. Saussurea costus has faced conservation concerns; prefer ethically cultivated sources.
Kuth Vs. Other Plants Called “Costus”
• Saussurea costus (Aucklandia lappa): The Ayurvedic Kuth discussed in this article.
• Costus speciosus: A different species (crepe ginger) used in some traditional systems; not the same as Kuth.
• Costus igneus/Costus pictus: Sometimes called “insulin plant” in popular media; not the same as Kuth and should not be used interchangeably.
Practical Tips For Safe, Effective Use
• Start low, go slow: Begin with a low dose to see how you feel.
• Combine with habits that help: For digestion, eat mindfully, limit trigger foods, and stay hydrated.
• Track your response: Keep a simple journal of dosage, timing, and how you feel.
• Stop if you react: If you notice itching, rash, swelling, stomach pain, or breathing changes, stop using Kuth and seek medical care.
• Keep your clinician in the loop: Share all supplements you take to avoid unwanted interactions and duplications. Consult a Top General Physician
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Naziya Rahim Bhatia
General Surgeon
7 Years • MBBS ,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Sougata Kumar
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Tapabrata Ray
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • MBBS,DGM,CPMeC,ACMDC
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Abhishek Ranjan
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
VDC Clinic, Kolkata
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Naziya Rahim Bhatia
General Surgeon
7 Years • MBBS ,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Sougata Kumar
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Tapabrata Ray
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • MBBS,DGM,CPMeC,ACMDC
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Abhishek Ranjan
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
VDC Clinic, Kolkata
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main Kuth root benefits?
Traditionally, Costus root is used to support digestion, ease gas and bloating, and provide gentle respiratory and skin support. Early lab studies support anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, but high-quality human trials are limited. Think of it as a traditional herb with promising, yet not definitive, evidence.
2. Is Costus root safe to take daily?
Short-term use appears well tolerated for many people, but safety data for long-term daily use are limited. Because herbal products vary, follow label instructions and consult a qualified clinician, especially if you take medications or have a health condition.
3. Can I use Kuth during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Safety is not well established in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so most reputable sources advise avoiding Costus root during these times unless your healthcare provider specifically recommends it.
4. I’m allergic to ragweed. Should I avoid Costus root?
Yes, use caution. Kuth comes from the Asteraceae family, and people with daisy or ragweed allergies may be more prone to reactions. Consider avoiding it or discussing it with an allergist or clinician first.
5. Is Costus root the same as the “insulin plant” I see online?
No. The “insulin plant” usually refers to Costus igneus (or Costus pictus), which is a different species. Kuth refers to Saussurea costus (Aucklandia lappa). Do not substitute one for the other without professional guidance.