
Islamic Medicine Qust Al-Hindi is a natural aid that can help support cold and flu symptoms, immune system, and general well-being.
INDIAN COSTUS POWDER
Other names in different languages:
- In Arabic it is called as Qust.
- English it is called as Costus.
- Hindi & Sanskrit it is called as Kusth.
- Latin it is called as Saussaurea lappa.
HISTORY OF COSTUS
The plant of the Qust, which is known as Costus is 2 metres in length and is generally found in the northwest and northeast of the sub Himalayan regions. The roots are used for medicinal purposes.
The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said, “Use this ‘Oud al-Hindi (Indian Wood Costus) because it contains 7 types of cures, it is sniffed by the one having throat trouble, and is put inside the mouth of one suffering from pleurisy”. [Saheeh al-Bukhari (5692)].
In addition, the Messenger (SAW) said: ” Cupping (Hijama) and Qust al-Bahri (Sea Incense Costus) are the best of your remedies”. He added, “You should not harm your children by treating tonsillitis by pressing their tonsils, rather use Qust al-Bahri (Sea Incense Costus)”. [Saheeh al-Bukhari (5696)].
Qust (Costus) also against victular and quartan fever (fever that comes every 4 days), the pain on the side of the body and poisons. When the face is anointed with Qust (Costus) that has been ground and mixed with water and honey, it heals spots that appear on the face. Galinus said that Qust (Costus) ‘heals tetanus, the pain on the sides and kills spots (which he called pumpkin seeds).
Besides that, modern researches suggest that Qust (Costus) is a blood purifier, antiseptic and increases the cutaneous circulation. Hence, it might be used to treat dandruff, freckles, and ringworm. It is a good insect repellent. Hence, might be used to keep off the insects from the clothes. Internally it is a good anti-spasmodic and neurotonic, hence, might be used to treat coughs, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, paralysis, facial palsy and neurasthenia.
INDIAN COSTUS AND SEA COSTUS
Qust al Bahri is another miracle of Allah’s creations, it is a blessed herb & has a huge value in Tibb al Nabwi, it was used by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), it is the best medicine for Sa’oot سعوط in which Qust is put in each nostril and inhaled heavily by breath, Sa’oot opens Sinus & blocked nose, expels phlegm & soothes the entire respiratory system, there is no other medicine more powerful than Qust for all respiratory disorders.
Furthermore, Prophet Muhammad SAW said: “Among all of your medicines, the best treatments are Hijamah & Qust al Bahri”.
وفى (الصحيحين): من حديث أنس رضى الله عنه، عن النبىِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم: (خيرُ ما تداوَيْتُم به الحِجامةُ والقُسْطُ البَحْرِىُّ).
There is another type of Qust which is called Oud al Hindi, it is darker in color, with a stronger and bitter flavor & is Hotter than ordinary Qust.
As a result, for a person under the evil spell of magic & jinn, some Hajjams combine Hijamah with Oud al Hindi, after Hijamah, Mahjoom is asked to take a teaspoon after every hour (a total of 16 teaspoons per day), those Hajjams feel that heavy dosage of Oud al Hindi crushes the spell of magic & Allah Knows the best. Because we feel that anything in excess is not justifiable.
Similarly, Qust has a lot of applications, if applied externally, it is a beauty remedy for arthritic pains. Even more, Imam Zahbi says that it is useful in paralysis as well as increases the libido, an antidote for snake poison and its oil is effective in back pain.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF COSTUS ROOT
- Treat Fever
- It increases heat in the body
- Reduces blood pressure
- Reduces fat
- Fights infection
- It reduces inflammation
- This herb relieves pain well
- It treats skin diseases
- It can improve hair growth
- Removes toxins from the body
- Skin diseases like itching and eczema
- Paralysis
- Low immunity and cold cough
- Nerve weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Intestinal parasites
- Irregular and painful periods and scanty menses
COSTUS DOSAGE POWDER
Below are some points on how to take costus:
- 1tsp costus powder, 1tsp honey in warm water, ideally on an empty stomach, once a day.
It is used to treat: stomach pains, stomach upsets, diarherra, constipation, colon problems, blood clots, tumours, cancer, cholesterol, high blood pressure, asthma, breathing problems, cleanses the womb, increases fertility, strengthens muscles after labor, contracts the womb, aids weight loss (take twice daily, morning and evening), diabetes (without the honey). - 1tsp costus powder, 1tsp honey, mix together and apply to the skin surface. Leave for 2 hours and then rinse off.
It is used to treat: acne, pimples, spots, scars, burns, nappy rash, mosquito bites, eczema, thrush, piles and as a face mask. - 1tsp costus powder, 1 glass of water, boil together for 2 minutes and allow to cool. Shake and apply 3 drops in each nostril.
It is used to treat: nose bleeds, runny nose, disinfects cuts. - 1tsp costus, apply directly to the skin.
It is used to treat: athletes foot. Also used as a natural deodorant.
Take orally with food or drink, once a week.
It is used to strengthen the immune system. - 5. 1tsp costus powder, 1 glass of coconut oil. Place on low heat for 5 minutes and allow to cool. Shake well and apply to skin.
It is used to treat; dandruff, hair loss, arthritis, rheumatism, eczema, bites, spots, skin discoloring.
WARNINGS OF USING COSTUS
The appropriate dose of costus depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. As with any herb, check with a medical doctor before taking. It is not to be taken whilst pregnant. So, check with doctor if taking blood thinning medication or high blood pressure medication before taking.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding:
There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking costus if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Therefore, stay on the safe side and avoid use. - Allergy to ragweed and related plants:
In contrast, Costus may cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to the Asteraceae and Compositae plant family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking costus.
WHERE TO BUY COSTUS
- Indian Costus Powder (Qust Al-Hindi)
- Sea incense Costus Powder (Qust Al-Bahri)
Customers can buy Qust al Hindi and Qust Al Bahri in our online store at: ACHLIM and LAZADA with the low prices.
Note: This article is solely for the purpose of sharing information. Please do not substitute it for professional medical advice. Before using anything as a medicine, always consult your doctor.


