TL;DR — Quick Summary
- 🌿 What it is: the dried root of Saussurea costus — English name Indian costus, Arabic/Urdu qust al-hindi, Hindi kuth/kust.
- ⚖️ Two types: Qust al-Hindi (Indian, darker, bitter) and Qust al-Bahri / qust e shireen (lighter, milder).
- 📜 Traditional uses: valued in Ayurveda, Unani and prophetic medicine for respiratory, digestive, immune and skin support.
- 🥄 How it's used: the powder is traditionally taken with honey or warm water, or the root infused in hot water.
- 🛍️ Buy in Sweden: Indian Costus powder & whole root at Ideal Indiska LIVS, in store and online.
If you've searched for “qust al-hindi”, “indian costus” or “costus root in English”, you're looking at the same remarkable herb — a root that has been used across South Asia and the Middle East for centuries. Here's a clear, no-nonsense guide to what it is, the two types you'll see, its traditional uses, and how people use the powder.
What is Indian Costus (Qust al-Hindi)?
Indian costus is the dried root of Saussurea costus (formerly Saussurea lappa), a plant native to the Himalayan region. The English/botanical name is costus; in Arabic and Urdu it is qust al-hindi (literally “Indian costus”), and in Hindi it is known as kuth or kust. It is sold as a coarse powder or as whole/broken root pieces with a warm, woody, slightly bitter aroma.
Qust al-Hindi vs Qust al-Bahri — Which is Which?
You'll often see two names side by side, and they cause a lot of confusion:
Qust al-Hindi
The “Indian” costus — darker in colour and more bitter. This is the type most often mentioned in prophetic-medicine traditions.
Qust al-Bahri
Also called qust e shireen (“sweet costus”) — lighter in colour and milder in taste. From the same costus family.
Traditional Uses of Qust al-Hindi
Across Ayurveda, Unani and prophetic-medicine traditions, qust al-hindi has long been valued as a warming, aromatic root. Traditionally it has been associated with:
Respiratory comfort — used in traditional blends for the chest and throat.
Digestive support — taken in small amounts as a warming digestive.
Immunity & general wellness — a long-standing tonic herb.
Skin & topical traditions — used in pastes and traditional preparations.
These are traditional uses passed down through herbal systems — they are not verified medical claims.
Important — not medical advice
This article is for general information only. Qust al-hindi is a traditional herb, not a medicine, and nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat or cure any condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using it — especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a health condition.
How to Use Indian Costus Powder
Traditionally, the powder is used in small amounts — commonly mixed with a little honey or stirred into warm water, or blended with other herbs. Whole root pieces can be infused in hot water. Because traditional sources vary on amounts and suitability, follow the guidance of a qualified practitioner rather than self-dosing.
Buy in Sweden & Europe
Indian Costus (Qust al-Hindi) at Ideal Indiska LIVS
In stock in Bandhagen, Stockholm — and online with fast delivery across Sweden and Europe. Available as powder or whole root.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Indian costus called in English?
Indian costus is the English name for the dried root of Saussurea costus (formerly Saussurea lappa), known in Arabic and Urdu as qust al-hindi and in Hindi as kuth or kust. "Costus" is the English/botanical term; "qust al-hindi" literally means "Indian costus".
What is the difference between Qust al-Hindi and Qust al-Bahri?
Qust al-Hindi (Indian costus) is the darker, more bitter root. Qust al-Bahri (also called qust e shireen or "sweet/marine costus") is lighter in colour and milder in taste. Both come from the costus plant and are used in traditional medicine; qust al-hindi is the type most often referred to in prophetic-medicine traditions.
What is Qust al-Hindi traditionally used for?
In Ayurveda, Unani and prophetic-medicine traditions, qust al-hindi has long been used to support respiratory comfort, digestion, immunity and skin health. These are traditional uses and not proven medical claims — see the disclaimer and consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.
How do you use Indian costus / qust al-hindi powder?
Traditionally the powder is mixed with a little honey or warm water, taken in small amounts, or added to herbal blends; the root pieces can be infused in hot water. Always follow the guidance of a qualified practitioner for amounts and suitability — it is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Where can I buy Indian costus (qust al-hindi) in Sweden?
Ideal Indiska LIVS in Bandhagen, Stockholm stocks Indian Costus Root Powder and whole Indian Costus, available in store and online with fast delivery across Sweden and Europe.