Kankustha (Saussurea costus): A Deep Dive into Its Role in Ayurveda

Introduction

Kankustha, botanically known as Saussurea costus (also referred to as Saussurea lappa), is an aromatic, perennial herb that grows in the alpine regions of the Himalayas, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Known for its distinct, pungent root fragrance, it has been used since Vedic times in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Chinese medicine. Ayurveda recognizes Kankustha as a powerful herb for Vata and Kapha disorders, and it is particularly esteemed for its actions on the digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems.

Main Disease in Which Kankustha is Most Accountable: Shwasa (Respiratory Diseases, especially Asthma)

Pathology of Shwasa in Ayurveda

Shwasa refers to breathing disorders, primarily bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). In Ayurveda, Shwasa arises from an imbalance of Vata and Kapha, leading to obstruction of Pranavaha srotas (respiratory channels).

Types of Shwasa (As per Charaka Samhita)

1. Maha Shwasa – Severe form with prolonged breathlessness.

2. Urdhva Shwasa – Difficulty in exhalation.

3. Chinna Shwasa – Intermittent breathing.

4. Tamaka Shwasa – Classic bronchial asthma, chronic and recurring.

5. Kshudra Shwasa – Mild form, mostly exertional.

Pathogenesis (Samprapti)

• Improper diet and lifestyle cause Kapha accumulation and Vata aggravation.

• Kapha blocks the respiratory channels.

• Vata, being obstructed, causes difficulty in breathing, leading to Shwasa.

Role of Kankustha in Shwasa

Kankustha is especially useful in Tamaka Shwasa due to its unique combination of the following properties:

• Vata-Kaphahara – Pacifies the primary doshas involved.

• Ushna Virya (Hot potency) – Clears Kapha congestion from lungs.

• Shwasahara (Anti-asthmatic) – Relieves breathlessness and supports lung function.

• Kasahara (Cough suppressant) – Reduces the associated cough.

• Deepana & Pachana – Strengthens digestion and prevents Ama (toxins), a key factor in Shwasa.

• Vatanulomana – Aids in downward movement of Vata, relieving dyspnea.

Kankustha acts on the Pranavaha srotas and helps liquefy and expel Kapha, allowing free movement of Vata, and restoring normal respiration. Its unique aroma and volatile oil content also help dilate bronchial passages.

Pharmacognosy of Kankustha

Botanical Name: Saussurea costus

Family: Asteraceae

Part Used: Root

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas, especially Kashmir at 2500–3000 meters altitude

Macroscopic Features:

• Large, fleshy root.

• Distinctive aromatic smell.

• Brownish, ridged, and cylindrical in shape.

Microscopic Features:

• Cork composed of several layers.

• Cortex with resin canals.

• Xylem vessels arranged radially.

Mode of Action in Ayurveda: Dosha and Dhatu Level

Dosha Action:

• Vata-Kaphahara – Ideal for diseases arising from Vata and Kapha imbalance.

• Mild action on Pitta, usually not aggravating it due to its slightly bitter taste.

Dhatu Action:

• Rasa and Prana Vaha Srotas – Clears congestion and enhances oxygenation.

• Raktavaha Srotas – Improves circulation due to its warming effect.

• Mamsa Dhatu – Promotes healthy muscle function, especially in the lungs.

• Majja Dhatu – Beneficial for nervous system involvement in chronic cases.

Kankustha facilitates the digestion and assimilation of nutrients, ensuring that Rasa and Rakta are formed without Ama, which plays a critical role in preventing recurrence of respiratory symptoms.

Names in Different Languages

• Sanskrit: Kankustha, Kushta, Pushkarmool

• Hindi: Kuth, Kut

• Punjabi: Koot

• Bengali: Kustha

• Gujarati: Koth

• Tamil: Kostham

• Telugu: Kustha

• Kannada: Kustha

• Malayalam: Kustham

• English: Costus, Costus Root

• Persian/Unani: Qust

Chemical Constituents

Kankustha is chemically rich in:

• Sesquiterpene lactones: Costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone

• Alkaloids

• Resins

• Tannins

• Essential oils (containing Saussurea lactone)

• Inulin

• Beta-sitosterol

• Alpha-amyrin

• Costunolide – a key anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator component

These phytochemicals give Kankustha its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, bronchodilator, and antimicrobial effects.

Diseases and Conditions Where Kankustha Is Useful in Ayurveda

1. Shwasa (Asthma and Bronchitis)

Helps open airways, liquefies phlegm, and calms Vata to restore normal breathing.

2. Kasa (Cough)

Its expectorant and soothing effects help reduce both dry and productive cough.

3. Agnimandya (Low Digestive Fire)

Deepana and Pachana actions boost Jatharagni, preventing Ama formation.

4. Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Reduces joint pain and stiffness by digesting Ama and calming Vata.

5. Grahani (Malabsorption Syndrome)

Strengthens the digestive system, restores absorption, and relieves bloating.

6. Kustha (Skin Diseases)

Its blood-purifying, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help in treating chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

7. Jwara (Fever)

Acts as an antipyretic and boosts immunity by removing underlying Ama.

8. Prameha (Diabetes)

Improves metabolism and supports sugar regulation by pacifying Kapha.

9. Shiro Roga (Headaches & Sinusitis)

Volatile oils clear nasal blockages and reduce sinus inflammation.

10. Vata Vyadhi (Neurological Disorders)

Strengthens the nervous system and reduces tremors, pain, and fatigue due to its Vata-pacifying effects.

Classical Ayurvedic Formulations Containing Kankustha

1. Sitopaladi Churna – For respiratory health, used in cough and asthma.

2. Vyoshadi Vatika – Used in all forms of respiratory conditions.

3. Dhanwantharam Taila – A medicated oil for neurological and Vata disorders.

4. Dashamoola Haritaki – A Rasayana used for immunity and lung function.

5. Brahmi Vati – Used for anxiety, focus, and balancing Vata.

6. Yograj Guggulu – Indicated in arthritis, Amavata, and neuralgia.

7. Trikatu Churna with Kankustha – Enhances digestion and clears respiratory passages.

8. Kaishore Guggulu – Used in skin and metabolic disorders.

9. Punarnavadi Mandura – Acts on anemia and edema with supportive herbs like Kankustha.

10. Ashwagandhadi Lehyam – Used as a tonic in weakness, includes Kankustha for its warming and digestive effects.

Home Remedies Using Kankustha

1. For Asthma and Cough: Powder of Kankustha root with honey twice daily.

2. For Bloating and Gas: Decoction with dry ginger and ajwain.

3. For Sinusitis: Inhalation of steam infused with Kankustha powder.

4. For Skin Itching: Paste made with turmeric and Kankustha powder applied externally.

5. For Loss of Appetite: Kankustha churna with warm water before meals.

6. For Rheumatic Pain: Massage oil prepared with Kankustha root.

7. For Fever with Cold: Infusion with tulsi and ginger.

8. For Worm Infestation: Kankustha and vidanga powder mix.

9. For Weight Management: Taken with honey and lemon juice.

10. For Menstrual Pain: Decoction of Kankustha and cinnamon.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

While Kankustha is generally safe in therapeutic doses, overuse or improper administration may result in:

Toxic Effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Burning sensation due to its Ushna nature

• Risk of abortion (contraindicated in pregnancy)

• Mild hepatic stress in rare cases

Contraindications:

• Pregnant and lactating women

• Pitta-prakriti individuals (may worsen conditions like ulcers or acidity)

• Severe liver diseases – Use cautiously

• Children under 5 years – Only under supervision

Always best administered under Ayurvedic supervision due to its potent action.

Relevance as Tikshna Virechana Dravya

While Kankustha is not primarily listed as a classical Tikshna Virechana Dravya like Arka, it does have Tikshna Guna (penetrative quality) and Ushna Virya, making it a supportive herb in Virechana therapy, particularly when the Vata-Kapha involvement is high.

• In combination with Trivrit, Hing, and Haritaki, Kankustha enhances bile flow and purgation action.

• It supports the cleansing of Ama and Kapha from the Pakvashaya and upper GIT.

• Especially relevant in chronic cases where congestion, mucus, or sluggish digestion is present.

Thus, while not a standalone Virechana drug, it is functionally supportive in purgative formulations.

Conclusion

Kankustha (Saussurea costus) is a gem in the treasure chest of Ayurvedic herbs. Aromatic, potent, and multi-faceted, it bridges the respiratory, digestive, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems with its action. Its efficacy in Shwasa (especially asthma) makes it a key drug of choice, supported by its Deepana, Pachana, and Vata-Kapha-hara attributes. Though powerful, it requires judicious use and guidance for optimal benefits.

For students and practitioners of Ayurveda, mastering Kankustha is a step toward mastering the complex interplay of doshas, srotas, and dhatus in healing chronic ailments naturally.