Costus root is a large, erect, perennial plant that can grow up to 2m of height. It is steam distilled from root part of the plant. After distillation process, the extract is derived in form of yellow to brownish yellow viscous liquid. Some of its properties include antispasmodic, antiseptic, antiviral, carminative, stimulant, stomachic and tonic. It is also used as incense, as fixative & fragrance component in cosmetics as well as in perfumes.

Costus is often characterized and distinguished from relatives such as Zingiber (true ginger) by its spiraling stems. The genus as a whole is thus often called spiral gingers, but this can also refer to C. barbatus specifically.

1.Costus root is used for treating worm (nematode) infections.

2.Costus oil is used for asthma, cough, gas, and severe intestinal diseases such as dysentery and cholera. It is also used as a tonic and to stimulate digestion.

3.In foods and beverages, costus oil is used as a flavoring component.

4.In manufacturing, costus oil is used as a fixative and fragrance in cosmetics.