Saussurea, an herb native to India that is used in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicines, can be used to treat a variety of medical issues. It is thought to be very useful in treating respiratory disorders, particularly bronchial asthma attacks. Issues with the digestive system can be treated with it, particularly cholera infections. Ulcerations on the skin may be treated effectively with an external application of the herb. Other medicinal uses for saussurea include treatment of jaundice, prevention of prematurely graying hair, and correcting irregular menstruation.
One of the best known medical uses of saussurea is the treatment of respiratory ailments. It is thought to help reduce the symptoms of asthma and can be used to treat a bronchial asthma attack. Respiratory infections such as bronchitis that cause coughing can also be treated using the herb, which helps to relax the bronchial muscles and stop spasms in the lungs. It also works as an expectorant, helping patients clear phlegm from their bronchial tubes.
A wide range of digestive issues can also be treated with saussurea. Abdominal distension and pain, bloating, and gas can all be relieved by taking the herb internally. It can help ease nausea and stop vomiting, and is thought to stimulate those with weak digestion. Both diarrhea and constipation can be soothed by saussurea, and it is sometimes used for intestinal infections. A saussurea infusion is thought to be especially helpful in treating a cholera infection, both to ease the symptoms of the disease and help it resolve more quickly.
Another use of saussurea is in the treatment of skin ulcerations. The herb has properties that help stop bleeding, and it is also both antiseptic and disinfectant, so it can help prevent infection from setting in to an open sore. Typically, the dried, powdered roots of the herb are used to make a balm which can then be applied directly to the skin ulcer.
A variety of other medical problems can also be treated with saussurea. It is sometimes used to treat jaundice. It is thought to prevent hair from going gray early when used in a shampoo or rinse. Women with irregular periods or other related issues may wish to take it, as it is thought to help regulate menstruation. A preparation of the herb can also help alleviate the pain of rheumatism and arthritis when applied externally.