Costus oil
Costus Oil is a rare essential oil derived from the steam-distilled roots of Saussurea costus (also known as Saussurea lappa), a Himalayan herb long valued in traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine. The oil has a deep amber to brown color and a rich, earthy, woody, and musky aroma. It is well-known in perfumery as a natural fixative and is widely used in spiritual rituals, incense making, high-end fragrances, and therapeutic blends.
Due to its grounding scent and potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and calming properties, Costus Oil is incorporated into personal care, topical formulations, and aromatherapy. It is a powerful aromatic oil that must be used in moderation and diluted due to its strong sensitizing compounds.
Uses
Primary Uses
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Used in perfumes, colognes, and oil-based fragrances for its musky, warm base note.
- Included in beard oils, grooming products, and solid perfumes for its earthy profile.
- Applied in massage oils for grounding and aromatic richness.
- Blended into artisan soaps, deodorants, and hair oils for deep fragrance.
Pharmaceuticals and Traditional Medicine
- Used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for respiratory support and skin conditions.
- Included in balms and ointments for muscle relief and inflammation.
- Employed in herbal preparations for digestive and immunity support.
Aromatherapy & Wellness
- Diffused for grounding, calming, and meditative benefits.
- Blended into stress-relief and chakra-balancing oils.
- Used in spiritual and energetic cleansing rituals.
Fragrance and Perfumery
- Extensively used as a base note and fixative in oriental and chypre perfumes.
- Enhances longevity and depth in fragrance blends with vetiver, sandalwood, or patchouli.
- Adds musky and smoky complexity to natural perfume compositions.
Secondary Uses
Household and Artisan Products
- Added to incense blends for its sacred, spiritual aroma.
- Used in scented candles and potpourri for a deep, resinous base note.
Incorporated in handmade perfume balms and body butters.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Saussurea costus / Saussurea lappa
- Common/Trade Name: Costus Oil
- INCI Name: Saussurea Lappa Root Oil
- CAS Number: 8023-88-9
- HS Code: 3301.29
- Synonyms: Kuth Oil, Costus Root Essential Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid essential oil
- Color & Odor: Deep amber to brown; earthy, woody, musky aroma
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol and carrier oils
- Refractive Index: 1.490 – 1.520
- Specific Gravity: 0.930 – 1.000
- Main Components: Costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone, sesquiterpene lactones
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: May cause skin sensitization; dermal allergen
- Toxicity: Must be diluted before use; avoid during pregnancy
- Exposure Limits: Use within IFRA-recommended limits
- Allergen Information: Contains sesquiterpene lactones, known sensitizers
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dark, well-sealed container
- Container Type: Amber glass bottles or stainless steel drums
- Shelf Life: 24–36 months with proper storage
- Handling Precautions: Use gloves and dilute before skin application
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Must comply with IFRA restrictions for use in cosmetics
- Produced in GMP-certified and ethical sourcing facilities
- Not approved for food use
- Source plant may require CITES certification in some jurisdictions
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under standard conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low when diluted; not recommended for aquatic release
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected under controlled use
Sustainability: Plant is endangered in wild; ethical cultivation essential
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves and goggles for concentrated handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use only diluted; perform patch test before use
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek help if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Rinse with water and soap; discontinue use if irritation occurs
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with clean water for 15 minutes
- Ingestion: Seek immediate medical attention; do not induce vomiting
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable oil
- Extinguishing Media: COâ‚‚, foam, dry chemical powder
- Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus
Hazardous Combustion Products: Aromatic smoke, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide