Costus (Saussurea costus, also known as "kuth" or "qist al-hindi") has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda, Unani, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. In these systems, Costus root has been employed for a variety of digestive ailments, including those related to the liver and gall bladder. Traditional texts sometimes recommend Costus for symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal pain, and sluggish bile flow, which may be interpreted in modern terms as gall bladder dysfunction. For example, Ayurvedic sources describe its use to "stimulate the digestive fire" and promote healthy bile secretion, which could theoretically support gall bladder function or compensate after cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal).

However, scientific validation for these uses is limited. While some animal studies suggest Costus may have hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) properties, there is currently little to no direct clinical evidence supporting its use specifically for gall bladder health, function, or conditions following gall bladder removal. Most available data are preclinical or anecdotal. Thus, its usage for gall bladder issues rests primarily on traditional practices rather than robust scientific research.