Conservation Strategies of Saussurea Costus, Critically Endangered Medicinal Herb Growing in Kashmir Himalaya- A Review

Saussurea Costus (Falc. ) Lipsch is an important endangered medicinal plant species naturally growing inthe Suru valley, kishenganga and the upper reaches of the Chenab valleys in Jammu and Kashmir. It is an endemic species of Indian Himalayan region growing at an attitude of 2600-4000masl. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-ulcer properties. It is used for the treatment of various ailments, like asthma, ulcer, stomach problems etc. The roots are used as insecticides to protect shawls and woollen fabrics. In the Indian systems of medicine several preparations prepared from the roots are used by Ayurvedic physicians for the treatment of cough and cold, stomach ache, toothache, typhoid, fever etc. It is one of the important medicines for gout, erysipelas and promotes spermatogenesis.