Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch: Botanical, Biochemical, Therapeutical Aspects and Conservation Strategies

Saussurea costus (critically endangered medicinal plant) is a member of the Asteraceae family and is widely found in the cold temperate climates of Asia, Europe, and North America. Essential oil extracted from its root is a rich source of several important chemical constituents that are immensely used in traditional medicines and pharmaceutical industries worldwide, owing to its antibacterial, anti-cancerous, anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective properties, etc. Strong market demand, ruthless harvesting from the wild, and its endemic status in the Himalayas might lead to its extinction in the near future and therefore requires proper conservation measures. This chapter comprehensively summarizes the information pertaining to the botanical, geographical distribution, bioactive constituents, pharmacology, challenges in conservation, and agronomic and ecological aspects for conservation of S. costus.