10 Health Benefits Of Saussurea Lappa (Costus)

Saussurea lappa, also known as costus, has health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving digestive health due to its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.

The root of the plant is traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of fever, cough, and skin conditions. Its benefits can improve lives by providing relief from menstrual cramps and alleviating symptoms of arthritis, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

Regular use may also promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Saussurea lappa .

1. Heals wounds quickly

Saussurea lappa heals wounds quickly because of its rich content of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpene lactones, which possess potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

These compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, promoting a clean wound environment that fosters faster healing.

Additionally, costus stimulates collagen synthesis and tissue repair, facilitating the wound closure process.

2. Reduces inflammation fast

Saussurea lappa reduces inflammation fast because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The roots of the plant contain compounds like costunolide and costolactone, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation quickly.

Its fast-acting mechanism makes it a popular natural remedy for various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, gout, and even skin irritations.

3. Relieves digestive issues

Saussurea lappa relieves digestive issues because it contains sesquiterpenes, specifically costunolide, which have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract.

This helps to ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, and gas. Additionally, costus root is believed to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility, promoting regular bowel movements and overall digestive health.

This natural remedy can offer relief from digestive discomfort.

4. Treats skin problems easily

Saussurea lappa treats skin problems easily because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to manage various skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and wounds.

The plant's active compounds, including costunolide and costolactone, exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, helping to prevent infections and promote faster healing of skin injuries.

5. Lowers fever rapidly

Saussurea lappa lowers fever rapidly because of its active ingredients, particularly costolide and costunolide.

These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, which help to reduce body heat and alleviate fever-related symptoms. Additionally, Saussurea lappa's unique bioactive molecules stimulate the body's thermoregulatory system, facilitating faster recovery from fever and promoting overall well-being.

This has been observed in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine practices for centuries.

6. Alleviates menstrual cramps

Saussurea lappa alleviates menstrual cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The root of the plant is rich in sesquiterpenes, which have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause contractions and pain in the uterus. By reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals, costus helps to alleviate the severity and frequency of menstrual cramps.

This natural remedy has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

7. Soothes respiratory issues

Saussurea lappa soothes respiratory issues because its bioactive compounds, such as sesquiterpenes, have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.

These properties help to relax airway muscles, reducing congestion and coughing.

The herb's anti-inflammatory effects also alleviate irritation and inflammation in the respiratory tract, providing relief from conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

8. Helps regulate blood sugar

Saussurea lappa helps regulate blood sugar because it contains compounds that enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose levels in the blood.

The herb's bioactive constituents, such as costunolide and dehydrocostus lactone, have been shown to activate AMP-activated protein kinase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism.

This action helps lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin function.

9. Reduces anxiety effectively

Saussurea lappa reduces anxiety effectively because of its unique bioactive compounds that modulate neurotransmitters and brain chemistry.

The herb's active principles, such as sesquiterpenes and iridoid glucosides, interact with GABA receptors, serotonin, and dopamine pathways to calm the nervous system, thus alleviating symptoms of anxiety and stress.

This natural remedy provides a safe and non-invasive approach to managing anxiety, making it an attractive option for those seeking a holistic solution.

10. Treats eczema naturally

Saussurea lappa treats eczema naturally because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The roots of the plant have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations. Costus root extract has been shown to reduce itching and redness associated with eczema, promoting healthy skin and preventing further irritation.

Its natural properties make it a popular herbal remedy for skin issues.