Costus Root - Saussurea costus (Indian Costus)

Costus Root
Saussurea costus (Indian Costus) | 28g

Costus Root, also called Indian Costus, is the aromatic root of Saussurea costus, a plant native to the Himalayan region. It has been valued for thousands of years in perfumery and incense making, and its oil is still used in fragrance work today. Thin slices of the root have also been used in baths.

Historical & Folkloric Background

Costus Root appears in Ayurvedic tradition, and it holds a place in Islamic tradition as well, where it is known as Indian oud or qust. It is mentioned in a hadith attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, which recommends Indian oud and describes it as having seven cures. In traditional folk practice, the scent of burning costus has been associated with driving away unwanted spirits and with protection against envy, the evil eye, and harmful magic.

Traditional Uses

• Burned as incense
• Used in the making of perfumes and aromatic oils
• Added in thin slices to hot baths
• Worked in folk traditions for protection and spiritual cleansing

Product Details

• 28 grams of sliced root per bag
• Saussurea costus

Sold as a curio only. All uses described are historical, traditional, and folkloric in nature, and no claims are made regarding efficacy. Not for internal use.