Evaluation of the phytochemical constituents, toxicity profile, and pharmacological activities of Qust al-Hindi Herb (Saussurea costus (Falc.))

Qust al-Hindi or Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. was first introduced as a supplement therapy. The herb is widely circulated in various markets in Indonesia and several other countries to treat respiratory tract disorders, including cough and bronchial asthma, and to support treatment of viral infections such as SARS-CO2. Hence, it is necessary to determine its toxicity profile, pharmacological properties, and phytochemical constituents. This research aims to evaluate the pharmacological activities of Qust al-Hindi extract, including the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory in animal models, as well as the antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and acute toxicity. The chemical compounds were determined by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). Extraction was carried out with ethanol, followed by phytochemical screening and fractionation with hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol for metabolite identification by GC-MS. Qust al-Hindi extract exhibited cytotoxicity in BSLT and MTT assays and showed significant antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities. Its cytotoxic activity was shown to be active against both BSLT and A549 cell lines. The 1,3-cyclooctadiene, dehydrocostus lactone, 4H-Pyran-4-one, and 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl compounds have proved to provide potential pharmacological activities and were predominantly present in the hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol fractions, respectively. The research revealed that the Qust al-Hindi herbal product presents beneficial pharmacological activities that need further exploration.