DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Costus speciosus (J. Konig) Sm.

Costus speciosus, commonly known as crepe ginger, Malay ginger, or white flowered costus, is a species of flowering plant in the Costaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. The plant is known for its beautiful flowers and is often used in ornamental gardening as well as traditional medicine.
Botanical Details:
• Scientific Name: Costus speciosus (J. Konig) Sm.
•  Family Scitaminae  Sub-family: Zingiberaceae.
• Genus: Costus
• Species: speciosus
Common Names:
• English: Crepe Ginger, Malay Ginger, White Flowered Costus
• Malayalam: ആനക്കൂവ, Channakkova , Malavayambu-മലവയമ്പ്
• Tamil: Kostam [கோஷ்டம்], மலை ஜிங்கர்ஸ் (Malai Jingar)
Synonyms:
• Costus barbatus (Roxb.) Link
• Costus speciosus var. alba
Botanical Description:
1. Plant Characteristics:
o Costus speciosus is a tall, perennial herb that grows up to 2–3 meters (6–10 feet) in height.
o The plant has large, glossy, dark green leaves, which are ovate (egg-shaped) to lanceolate (long and narrow) in shape.
o The leaves are spirally arranged along the stem, giving the plant a striking and unique appearance.
Habitat & Distribution:
• Native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, Costus speciosus is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in forest clearings, hillsides, and roadside areas.
• The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is often found at elevations between 1,000–2,500 meters (3,300–8,200 feet) above sea level.
• It requires a warm climate and is grown in gardens for both ornamental and medicinal purposes.
Uses:
1. Ornamental Uses:
o Costus speciosus is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance and showy flowers.
o It is used in gardens, parks, and landscaping to add height and vibrant color.
o The plant’s large, glossy leaves and tubular, white flowers make it an attractive addition to tropical and subtropical landscapes.
2. Medicinal Uses:
o Traditional Medicine: Costus speciosus has long been used in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda and Southeast Asian herbal practices.
o Roots: The rhizomes (roots) of the plant are used in herbal remedies. They are often made into pastes, decoctions, or powders.
 It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
 The plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fevers, digestive issues, and respiratory problems such as cough and asthma.
o Liver Health: The plant is sometimes used to treat liver diseases and is believed to promote detoxification of the body.
o Diabetes: It is also used in some areas as a remedy for diabetes to help regulate blood sugar levels.
o Wound Healing: The rhizomes are sometimes applied topically to treat wounds and cuts.