Uses, Side Effects, Dose, Health Benefits, Precautions & Warnings

Abd El-Razek, M. H., Ohta, S., Ahmed, A. A., and Hirata, T. Sesquiterpene coumarins from the roots of Ferula assa-foetida. Phytochemistry 2001;58(8):1289-1295. View abstract.

Appendino, G., Maxia, L., Bascope, M., Houghton, P. J., Sanchez-Duffhues, G., Munoz, E., and Sterner, O. A meroterpenoid NF-kappaB inhibitor and drimane sesquiterpenoids from Asafetida. J Nat Prod. 2006;69(7):1101-1104. View abstract.

Carrubba, R. W. The first report of the harvesting of Asafetida in Iran. Agric.Hist 1979;53(2):451-461. View abstract.

Duan, H., Takaishi, Y., Tori, M., Takaoka, S., Honda, G., Ito, M., Takeda, Y., Kodzhimatov, O. K., Kodzhimatov, K., and Ashurmetov, O. Polysulfide derivatives from Ferula foetida. J Nat Prod. 2002;65(11):1667-1669. View abstract.

Fatehi, M., Farifteh, F., and Fatehi-Hassanabad, Z. Antispasmodic and hypotensive effects of Ferula asafoetida gum extract. J Ethnopharmacol 2004;91(2-3):321-324. View abstract.

Harve, G. and Kamath, V. Larvicidal activity of plant extracts used alone and in combination with known synthetic larvicidal agents against Aedes aegypti. Indian J Exp Biol 2004;42(12):1216-1219. View abstract.

Ren, D., Yang, W., and Zeng, G. [Effects of microwave radiation on the content of five elements in mice bone tissue]. Wei Sheng Yan.Jiu. 2001;30(4):201-202. View abstract.

Singh, U. P., Singh, D. P., Maurya, S., Maheshwari, R., Singh, M., Dubey, R. S., and Singh, R. B. Investigation on the phenolics of some spices having pharmacotherapeuthic properties. J Herb.Pharmacother. 2004;4(4):27-42. View abstract.

Uma, Pradeep K., Geervani, P., and Eggum, B. O. Common Indian spices: nutrient composition, consumption and contribution to dietary value. Plant Foods Hum.Nutr 1993;44(2):137-148. View abstract.

Unnikrishnan, M. C. and Kuttan, R. Cytotoxicity of extracts of spices to cultured cells. Nutr Cancer 1988;11(4):251-257. View abstract.

Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 — Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Asafoetida We Should All Know About

Asafoetida or hing makes for an indispensable part of the Indian cuisine, especially in curries and dals. It is a latex gum extracted from various species of a perennial herb known as ferula. Its distinct flavour and aroma can transform any boring dish. Moreover, it has long been known for the health benefits it has to offer. It has a prominent place in traditional medicine; thanks to its carminative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative and diuretic properties. Considering its therapeutic and curative powers, asafoetida is also referred to as the Food of the Gods.Let’s look at asafoetida’s health and beauty benefits that it has long been known for!Health Benefits1.  Helps Reduce Bloating And Other Stomach Problems
 
Asafoetida or hing is an age-old medicine for stomach problems including gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal worms and flatulence; thanks to its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate such health issues. Consume a dash of hing on a daily basis by adding it into gravies and dals. Another option is to dissolve some hing in water and drink it daily. (Also Read: Stomach Heat: Here’s How You Can Keep Your Stomach Cool Naturally! )
 

_{Asafoetida or hing is an age-old medicine for stomach problems including gas and bloating}

2.  Helps Relieve AsthmaHing may also help in relieving respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, dry cough, et al due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antibiotic effects. It also helps in relieving chest congestion and releasing phlegm. All you need to do is to prepare a paste using asafoetida and water and apply on your chest. You can also mix asafoetida and dry ginger powder along with some honey. Consume this mixture to get relief from respiratory issues.
 

Hing may also help in relieving respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis and dry cough

3.   May Lower Blood Pressure LevelsAsafoetida is known to be a natural blood thinner and may help in lowering blood pressure levels. It is power-packed with coumarin, a compound that aids in improving blood flow, thereby preventing the formation of clots.(Also Read: High Blood Pressure? 5 Healthy, Delicious Snacks That You Can Enjoy Guilt-Free )
 

_{Asafoetida is known to be a natural blood thinner and may help in lowering blood pressure levels}

4.  May Relieve Menstrual PainPeriods are a nightmare for most women; however, asafoetida may come to your rescue by alleviating the menstrual pain and cramps in the lower abdomen and back. Being a natural blood thinner, it helps blood flow smoothly without hampering any part of your body. It also boosts progesterone secretion that promotes easy blood flow, thus providing relief from pain. Mix a pinch of asafoetida, fenugreek powder and a pinch of salt in a cup of buttermilk and consume it during periods.(Also Read: Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Consume Cold Foods And Drinks While You Are On Your Periods )
 

_{Asafoetida helps in alleviating the menstrual pain and cramps in the lower abdomen and back}

  5. Reduces HeadachesAsafoetida has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, which in turn reduces headaches. All you need to do is to heat a pinch of asafoetida in some water. Drink this solution a couple of times in a day to see effective results.
 

_{Asafoetida has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing headache} 
 

6.   Can Heal Insect Bites And StingsAsafoetida acts as a natural antidote for insect bites and stings. All you need to do is to mix garlic and hing paste and apply on the affected area.
 

_{Asafoetida acts as a natural antidote for insect bites and stings}

Beauty Benefits1.  It May Help Reduce AcneIts anti-inflammatory properties work together to reduce acne production. Whereas, its anti-bacterial properties inhibit the growth of pimples and rashes. All you need to do is to add multani mitti and rose water along with a dash of hing in a bowl. Mix the ingredients and apply it on the affected area.
 

_{Asafoetida’s anti-inflammatory properties work together to reduce acne production}

 
2.  May Help Bring A Glow On Your FaceAsafoetida helps increase the supply of oxygen to facial tissues that gives your skin a radiant glow. Mix asafoetida with water or rose water to form a paste; you can add some sandalwood powder too. Apply this on your face regularly to get effective results.
 

_{Asafoetida helps increase the supply of oxygen to facial tissues that gives your skin a radiant glow}

3. Acts As A Good Hair ConditionerAsafoetida can do wonders for dry and frizzy hair; thanks to its moisturising properties. Make a hair mask using yogurt, almond oil and hing and apply on your hair. Leave it for an hour before washing it off with lukewarm water.(Also Read: Banana Hair Mask: Here’s How You Can Use This Wonder Fruit For Lustrous Hair )
 

_{Asafoetida can do wonders for dry and frizzy hair}

Go on and add asafoetida or hing in your daily diet and ensure a healthy you!

Biological activities and medicinal properties of Asafoetida: A review

24 Wonderful Benefits Of Asafoetida (Hing) On Your Health And Skin

Asafoetida is one of the important kitchen ingredients used in many Indian recipes. But, did you know that this special flavour adding agent offers many benefits for health, skin and hair as well? Yes, it has a hyped herbal formula for both unmatched and proven medical benefits. Know this powerful rhizome root’s miraculous nature. Here we unfold all those rare facts, benefits of asafoetida for skin, hair and health.

The following factual guide to the benefits of Asafoetida will help you in making a much required lifestyle change by switching to the use of this miracle edible item in your daily diet.

What Is Asafoetida Powder?

Asafoetida is a culinary herb and the roots of this Rhizome plant are dried to form a gum like substance. This dried latex (gum) is Asafoetida. It has a foul/pungent smell and is more commonly called as Hing in India. This plant is a native of Iranian countries and Afghanistan. However, its widespread use and cultivation is also prevalent in and nearby the Indian Sub-continent.

The main reason for which this herbal dried extract was promoted as an edible spice was its capability to offer a smooth texture to curries and soups. While it is famous with many other interesting names like food of the Gods and a few more, such names are an attribute to its never-ending health and beauty benefits it offers upon consumption.

Skin Benefits Of Asafoetida

1. Anti-Ageing Benefits:

This herbal spice makes an amazing anti-ageing agent. It offers the goodness of reducing wrinkles, fine lines and age spots from the face. Asafoetida can be mixed with rose water and fuller’s earth to form an effective anti-wrinkle face mask.

How To Make An Anti-Wrinkle Face Mask?

1. Mix fuller’s earth and honey in a bowl and add a few drops of rose water to it.
2. Sprinkle Asafoetida to the mixture and beat well to form a thin paste.
3. Apply on face and massage for 15 minutes.

This amazing face mask offers freedom from wrinkles and age spots. It has the power to make you look 10 years less from your actual age.

2. Skin Whitening Benefits:

Asafoetida can be used as a whitening agent that promotes fairness and demotes dark spots, acne marks and oiliness. It naturally hampers the production of Tyrosine in the skin. Tyrosine promotes the production of melanin in human skin that leads to skin darkening, premature ageing and dullness. Asafoetida keeps a check on the production of tyrosine. Thus, you can flaunt a blemish-free and radiant, younger skin with the use of Asafoetida face masks largely.

How To Make A Whitening Face Mask?

1. Mash a tomato and mix it with sugar.
2. Beat the mixture until the sugar dissolves in tomato juice.
3. Sprinkle Asafoetida to the mixture to form a thin paste.

This amazing face mask is a fairness face mask that can improve your complexion upto 2 tones naturally.

[ Read: Benefits Of Ginger Powder For Health ]

3. Anti-Acne Benefits:

Do you have a troubled acne affected skin? Asafoetida might be just the magic ingredient that you were missing in your skin care regimen till now. This amazing herbal formula hampers the production of acne causing bacteria on the skin. It makes skin conditions unfavorable for the growth of bacteria. Thus, it can put an end to your year’s long acne as well.

How To Make An Anti Acne Face Mask?

1. Mix Fuller’s earth and rose water to form a thick paste.
2. Add a few drops of lemon juice to the mixture and sauté well.
3. Sprinkle Asafoetida to the mixture and beat well.

This amazing face mask keeps you safe from acne and acne marks largely. Use it regularly twice a day for optimal results. Asafoetida controls the formation of excessive oil in the skin. This keeps your pores free of dirt, oil and sebum. Thus, eventually acne clears off from the skin completely.

4. Radiance Promoting Benefits:

Asafoetida works like a radiance enhancer that imparts a never ending glow to the skin. It increases the supply of oxygen to facial tissues, which makes them lively and plump. You get a pink tinted fair skin that glows beautifully well. The best side-benefit of this radiance promotion benefit is the removal of ugly under eye dark circles completely.

How To Make A Radiance Face Pack?

1. Simply mix Asafoetida with water/rose water to form a paste.
2. You can add sandalwood powder to increase the thickness of this face pack.

This amazing face pack increases glow and makes skin radiant and flawless.

5. Anti-Dryness Benefits:

Pollution and stress leaves the skin and hair dry and damaged. Asafoetida works like a dryness repairing agent that offers smooth and moist skin. It can erase all the visible signs of skin dryness like dullness, peeling, cracking, freckles, wrinkles and pigmentation.

How To Make Dryness Repellent Face Mask?

1. Simply mix milk and rose water in a bowl and add honey to it.
2. Add Asafoetida to the mixture and beat well.
3. Store this flowing face pack in a refrigerator to increase its shelf life.
4. Apply this face mask regularly to reverse all the signs of skin dryness.

6. Treats Allergies And Corns:

Other than making the skin blemish free, Asafoetida also works to cure skin allergies and corns. Different skin allergies resulting from sun damage or dryness can be cured using Asafoetida within a few weeks of use.

Hair Benefits Of Asafoetida

7. Hair Conditioning Benefits:

Asafoetida can also be used to make hair conditioning masks. It effectively works to trap moisture in the scalp. This amazing benefit makes it a deep moisturizing product that can control the problem of hair dryness and frizz to a large extent.

How To Make A Conditioning Hair Mask?

1. Mix yogurt, green tea extract and almond oil in a bowl.
2. Add Asafoetida to the mixture and beat well.
3. Apply on hair from the roots to tips and leave to dry for 1 hour.
4. Wash with lukewarm water.

This amazing hair mask offers the goodness of improving scalp health against dryness. It makes hair smooth, shiny and stronger too.

8. Hair Fall Controlling Benefits:

Asafoetida improves the texture of the hair. It also guards the hair against un-natural and heavy hair fall. It is therefore used as a solution to baldness in males and thin hair in females. You must look forward to the amazing hair follicle strengthening and dandruff controlling benefits of Asafoetida, since it controls hair fall and makes hair thicker.

9. Scalp Health Maintenance:

Scalp gives rise to hair follicles. When the scalp health dis-orients, it directly turns the hair roots weaker. This leads to hair fall and hair damage. Asafoetida restores and maintains the normal PH level of the scalp. It also keeps the scalp safe from sweat, oil and acne. It naturally removes the scalp issues like acne, oil, dandruff and dryness. As a result, the overall hair strength, texture and quality improve.

[ Read: Benefits Of Moringa Powder ]

Health Benefits Of Asafoetida

10. Anti-Viral Benefits:

This is just the beginning of a long list of health benefits this amazing herbal spice offers. Latest studies have proven that Asafoetida constricts and hampers the growth and reproduction of harmful viruses like h2N1. When this herbal spice comes in contact with the influenza causing virus h2N1, it triggers the production of natural antibiotics against a viral attack. Detailed researches and independent studies are being carried out until today to find more about the amazing benefits of this herbal formula against other viral agents as well. To sum up, this amazing edible ingredient offers strong immunity against influenza viral infection.

11. Anti-Asthmatic Benefits:

Asthma and bronchitis are two acute respiratory syndromes. Asafoetida is a natural foe to these respiratory syndromes largely. It triggers the production of natural antibodies as soon as a person catches cold. This powerful boost in immunity triggers the process of easing respiration. Thus, it is a powerful remedy against cold, asthma and bronchitis.

12. Anti-Epileptic Benefits:

The amazing Asafoetida health benefits are not just curtailed to the traditional means of treating cough and cold. The spice is also a powerful anti-epileptic Unani medicine. Unani is the ancient science of treating diseases. It is still prevalent and a natural way of preventing diseases largely. However, be careful of using Asafoetida as a preventive measure against epilepsy. In cases of having confirmed epilepsy, you must seek the advice of a certified doctor.

13. Digestive Benefits:

Current lifestyle, devoid of much movement and physical work, leads to digestive problems easily. Asafoetida is a natural armour of preventing and curing such digestive issues easily. It flushes out the toxins from the human digestive tract. It is a natural foe to such toxins that slow down the process of digestion in humans. Thus, it helps in easing the process of proper digestion by restoring the normal PH level of the stomach. It successfully offers freedom from the most common problem of improper digestion i.e constipation.

14. Healing Benefits:

Asafoetida has an ancient history of being used as a healing medicine for stomach injuries as well. Current studies have proven the efficiency of this marvellous herbal genius in treating wounds and burns. Direct application to wounds in the form of a paste reduces the wound appearance and lessens pain too.

15. Opium Antidote:

Asafoetida offers the goodness of being used as an antidote for Opium. It has a history of treating gall bladder infections and various other stomach problems. It is also a powerful digestion enhancer. All this proves its efficiency as an opium antidote.

16. Anti-Acidic Benefits:

Asafoetida works like a natural alkali that dilutes excessive acids in the stomach. It eases intestinal gastric issues as well. Thus, it is an amazing anti-flatulent agent that eases gastric and acidic pain.

17. Contraceptive Benefits:

Modern science is still working towards finding the contraceptive benefits of Asafoetida. However, historically this herbal spice has been used as a powerful contraceptive against unwanted pregnancy. It was historically used as an abortive pill as well. Thus, be careful of using this spice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding a child.

18. Mood Elevating Benefits:

Asafoetida is also known for its mood-elevating benefits. This is not a drug, but a herbal formula that triggers the production of happiness hormone and hampers the production of stress. This is a powerful stress managing spice that should be used with caution. Do not incline to its use if you have a declared history of mania.

19. Anti-Depressive Benefits:

Asafoetida has historically been used as an anti-depressive medicine. Its ability to induce happiness and decrease the thoughts of failure and negativity makes it a powerful natural anti-depressant too.

20. Increases Metabolism:

This amazing health benefit aids multiple health issues. Asafoetida increases the body’s metabolism largely. This improves digestion. Thus, it triggers fat metabolism too. This hampers the circulation of LDL (bad cholesterol) in human blood. Thus, Asafoetida keeps you safe of all the heart problems resulting from cholesterol formation and accumulation.

21. Increases Physical Well Being:

Asafoetida works towards increasing and maintaining the heart health. It is also a beneficial respiratory medicine against cough and breathing issues. Thus, it is clear that this herbal spice increases the supply of blood to all tissues and cells. This increases and ensures that every cell gets the required oxygen content. Thus, it reduces physical fatigue by offering the tired tissues a chance to get repaired.

22. Anti-Impotency Benefits:

Asafoetida is a powerful natural ingredient that can be used to treat a few problems related to impotency. It increases sexual drive in females and offers freedom from the problem of premature ejaculation largely. It is already a proven stress regulator. This also aids in improving the sexual drive of males.

23. Worm Repellent:

Maybe, the pungent smell of Asafoetida works in favor of its worms repelling benefit. It should be taken at night with warm water. It flushes out the intestinal worms when taken regularly with Ajwain.

[ Read: Health Benefits Of Maca Powder ]

24. Eases Menstrual Cramps:

Menstrual Cramps are nightmares for all women suffering from them. Asafoetida eases this problem by reducing pain sensation around the waist and lower abdomen. Thus, it can be used at times of extreme menstrual cramps to ease an ongoing pain sensation.

The above listed 24 amazing skin, hair and health benefits make Asafoetida a miracle edible discovery. This simple cooking ingredient offers such wonderful health benefits that can make you look at least 10 years younger to your actual age. However, benefits always come with simple precautions. Be careful while using Asafoetida if you have a history of drug addiction, alcoholism, mania and depression. Always consult a doctor in cases of extreme medical emergencies.

Hope you liked this article on Asafoetida powder benefits. How much do you rate this culinary ingredient with the numerable benefits it offers? If you know any recipes that includes this agent as a main ingredient, do not forget to share it with us. We will be glad to see your responses.

Recommended Articles:

Was this article helpful?

Related

The following two tabs change content below.The one with a constant energy that can leave you awed, Tanya can jump around and talk for the whole… more

Asafoetida – BBC Good Food

What is asafoetida?

Asafoetida is a gum from a variety of giant fennel, which naturally has a strong and pungent smell, rather like rotting garlic (as in foetid). It’s a very useful spice for those who can’t or won’t eat onion or garlic, as it adds a similar depth and savouriness to food. Indeed, Jain and Brahmin Indians, who are prohibited from eating garlic and onions, use it a lot in their cooking.

How to cook asafoetida

Generally, the yellow, diluted asafoetida powder is used to the proportion of a pinch or two, to 250g of the main ingredient. The undiluted powder is used in smaller amounts. You’ll quickly discover if you like more or less, and there’s no harm done if you use too much – longer cooking mellows it.

Asafoetida works best when fried for 5 to 10 seconds in hot oil until its pungency is dramatically obvious – make sure you have the extractor on or a window open – then add other ingredients to stop it burning.

Even small amounts of asafoetida give a comforting onion-garlic flavour, which is especially good in vegetarian dishes, curries and stews – almost anywhere you would use onion and/or garlic.

Tiny amounts give a gentle lift to fish, egg or cheese dishes where onion would be too coarse or bulky. That includes in salads and salad dressings, too.

Asafoetida is also a natural defeater of intestinal wind, and that alone recommends it for inclusion in any and everything that includes lentils or beans.

Try it in a paneer with broccoli & sesame dish, or Gujarati cabbage with coconut.

How to store asafoetida

It’s best to keep asafoetida sealed in an airtight container to prevent the smell spreading through your home.

Asafoetida’s degree of pungency is directly proportionate to its freshness, as its volatile oil escapes easily and the essence then fades. Take great care storing it and replace often if you use it regularly.

Availability of asafoetida

Easily available online, from bigger supermarkets and from Indian spice stockists, where it is known as ‘hing’.

Choose the best asafoetida

Asafoetida comes in two main forms.

The brown powder is the full-strength dried gum that’s been ground; it’s extremely pungent and must be used in very, very small amounts.

It’s easier to use it as a yellow powder, when it’s been diluted with flour or rice flour and turmeric, but should still be used scantly. Different producers temper it differently, so check the packaging for directions.

The real thing is red-brown lumps of different sizes, but you’re unlikely to encounter it.

What Is Asafoetida? And How to Use It For Health Benefits

Thankful for Every Click to Share

Not many know about the secret Indian spice called Asafoetida used in many Indian dishes to replace onion and garlic. Read along to find out what is asafoetida and the uses. 

Asafoetida ( pronounced as Asa-feh-ti -daah), disguised under an all singing and dancing name is a serious spice which may not be known to many.

The traditional uses of asafoetida is to make vegetarian Indian meals.

It is not just the spelling which is odd and unusual about this spice.

Read along and find out what is Asafoetida powder and how to use it for cooking?

What Is Asafoedita?

The overpowering smell, unusual appearance, the foul smell, the awkward pronunciation are all attempts to misguide you away from this mysterious, health beneficial and flavourful spice.

We Indians just don’t want the world to know about this secret spice of ours 🙂 !!

Asafoedita or hing in Hindi is a gum resin added to dishes to enhance flavour.

You may have tasted it many a time while eating out in your favourite Indian joint or behold……  in Worcestershire sauce ( as per this article)!!

Other Names of Asafoetida

English – Asafoedita, Asafetida, devils dung

Indian – Hing, heeng (in Hindi)

Asafoetida in German –  Asant, Stinkasant, Teufelsdreck, Asafötida

Asafoetida in French – Asa-fœtida, Asa-fétida, Férule persique, Merde du diable, Ase fètide

Asafoetida in Spanish – El barco navega lejos

What Does Asafoetida Look Like?

Asafoetida is a resin.

Its a gum from the sap of the roots or stem of a giant fennel like plant species called Avant.

There are two types of Asafoetida that can be used for cooking purposes:

1. Asafoetida powder – which is the most common type sold and used for cooking

2. Asafoetida Rock –  which is the solid gum form and needs to be either soaked in water ground into powder.

Types of Asafoetida – Rock or Asafoetida powder

My grandmom used to buy Asafoetida in a solid lump as it had a stronger aroma. ( or smell to be more precise)

Although solid or coarse in form, another unique quality of this spice is the ability to disintegrate or dissolve in liquid, just like salt or sugar!!

This means you will not see any traces of asafoetida in the dish but be able to taste it.

How Does Asafoetida Taste?

The lovingly given pet name of ‘devils dung’ may give you a hint of what the spice may taste of !!

Yes, you guessed it right, it is not a love at first smell kind of spice.

I call it odd-smelling because unlike other spices which make you go ‘aaaahhhh’ this spice will make you go ‘yuucccckkkk’.

Asafoetida spice undoubtedly falls under the umami or pungent category of flavour.

Check out the list of spices divided under the various flavour categories

It is a bitter and heavy spice when uncooked or in raw form, smelling almost like sulfur.

I am very aware that my description so far about Asafoetida as a spice has been less than convincing.

The truth be told, this spice it deceptive when it comes to taste and appearance.

Although it may not look the part and smell far from an aromatic spice, it does wonders in enhancing the taste of the dish.

The magic starts as soon as the powder hits the warm oil.

The taste considerably changes when added and cooked in a dish to replicate the taste and smell of garlic and onions.

It is a must- have spice in many vegetarian households in India especially those who do not consume root vegetables. (know as Jains)

The Uses of Asafoetida or Hing In Cooking

It may surprise you to know that this spice is used in many popular Indian spice blends which you may already be using such as Chat Masala, Sambar Powder, few curry powder recipes as well!

The most important thing to keep in mind when cooking with Asafoedita is to use it sparingly.

A little imparts a strong taste so a pinch or half a tsp to a serving of 4-6 is advisable.

Some prefer to soak it in a small amount of water before using it for cooking as it brings out a stronger taste.

There are different ways to use this spice for cooking.

1. You can add  1/2 tsp of Asafoetida powder directly in hot oil (tempering method), along with other whole spices and continue to cook as per the recipe. Check out this 15 minutes green beans with coconut recipe for a dish idea.
2. Add it in between the cooking process along with other ingredients while making the base curry sauce.
3. Soak a tsp of whole or powdered asafoetida in water and add it to other liquid such as water, tamarind pulp, tomato juice to make sauces.
4. Add it to lentils, legumes or vegetable soups, stews and casseroles.
5. Add a dash with other spices for making a spice rub.
6. Use asafoetida as a pickling spice along with mustard seeds or black seeds.

Is Asafoetida Good For You?

If you are allergic to onions or do not like the strong smell of garlic then this Indian hing spice is a brilliant alternative.

Apart from this, Asafoetida has many health benefits and has been used as part of Ayurvedic medicine especially if you suffer from digestive disorders.

We discuss the benefits in detail below.

What Are The Health Benefits of  Asafoetida  

Combats Flatulence – Asafoetida soaked in water, made into a paste and rubbed onto tummies as been an age old Ayurvedic remedy to relieve flatulence in babies, toddlers, children and adults.

Helps to eliminate respiratory problems – Asafoetida paste can also be applied on the chest to alleviate symptoms such as asthma, cough and chest infection

Aids digestion –  Adding a pinch of asafoetida to food that causes bloating in the stomach such as lentils, legumes, cauliflower, cabbage, radish etc helps to make digestion faster and easier.

A good substitute for Onion or Garlic allergies or intolerance  – Asafoetida is a very good alternative to replicate the flavour and taste of onion and garlic. So good for those who are intolerant to the two.

Reduces skin infection – You can also use asafoetida paste on to pimples, insect bite and other minor skin problems to reduce inflammation and itchiness and speed up healing.

What Foods and Spices Go Well With Asafoetida

Asafoetida powder is primarily used for vegetarian dishes and goes well with most vegetables, legumes, lentils, rice and other spices.

Best food pairing: beans, cauliflower, cabbage, chicken, eggplant, ginger, lamb, lentils, peas, potatoes, rice, green leafy vegetables, orange and red vegetables

Best spice pairing: black seeds/nigella seeds, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, bay leaves, cardamom, cinnamon,  cloves, coriander seeds, dry chilies, turmeric

What Are The Best Spice Substitute for Asafoetida

If the strong smell is not your thing or the recipe calls to add it, then you use the below suggestion as asafoetida substitute:

Substitute 1 – onion powder or garlic powder.

Substitute 2 – Fresh garlic, onions, shallots or leeks are also other options.

Where To Buy Asafoedita

There are two different forms of asafoetida available.

One that comes in a solid form that is brown in colour while another in a powder form mostly yellow in colour.

The more popular of the two is the powdered yellow variety as its easier to use for cooking and has a much milder aroma.

You can buy it in larger quantity and store it for later use or small quantities in bottles or jars.

Recommended Products

US resident 

Click image to buy online

UK and rest of Europe 

Buy Asafoedita  From The British Corner Shop for Worldwide Delivery 

How to Store Asafoetida

As asafoetida has a very powerful smell, its best to store it in an airtight container in a slight distance from other spices.

Store it away from any direct light and heat.

Make sure that the lid is tightly sealed or you can put it in another plastic container or bag. The reason for this is that the oils in asafoetida are very volatile and can overpower your entire spice drawer if not secured well.

Well stored and packed asafoetida powder will keep its character and flavour for almost a year.

Easy Recipes with Asafoetida to Try

Buy Spices Online

Avail the convenience to get a range of spices, special ingredients and regular grocery delivered straight to your door without any hassle.

You can visit the Shopping For Ingredients section of the blog to see a range of spices, kitchenware and gift ideas.

Below are my recommended online stores.

UK and Rest of Europe Residents  –  British Corner Shop, the official partners of Waitrose UK with economic worldwide delivery

US Residents –  Get fresh organic spices delivered straight to your doorstep.

To Conclude 

I may have not done complete justice to this mysterious Indian spice in trying to explain the benefits of Asafoetida, but in all honesty, this is one of my most favourite spices I diligently use in many of my dishes.

Not only does asafoetida act as a natural flavour enhancer it also has many underlining health benefits.

It is a go-to spice when I cook pulses or vegetables that can cause bloating or produce excess gas !! ( I could live without the natural sound effects)

So next time you go to eat out and order daal or a vegetable curry, eat it first and then check with the chef if it had any asafoetida added to it.

If yes, it may surprise you to know that you just tasted the devil’s dung without being knocked out!!

I would love to hear your experience of tasting or cooking with asafoetida, so please do share it here by leaving a comment below.

And as always if you think this article deserves more eyes then please do share by clicking the share and/or save buttons.

Thankful for Every Click to Share

10 Amazing Benefits of Asafoetida

The most interesting health benefits of asafoetida include its ability to protect the gastrointestinal system, improve menstrual symptoms, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, eliminate respiratory issues, prevent reproductive disorders, improve mood swings and nervous disorders, and ease the pain.

What is Asafoetida?

There is a perennial herb genus called Ferula exudes sap from its taproot. This sap is the dried latex or resin that is called asafoetida. This plant is native to Iran and the Middle East, but it is found as far as India, where it is widely cultivated. Although the smell of the plant is quite pungent, when used in cooking and food preparation, the taste and aroma are not unlike a leek. Some of the common names for Ferula assa-foetida include asant, Devil’s dung, and ting. The dried variety of asafoetida can be crushed into a spice and added to many different foods, and is commonly found in Indian cuisine, in dressings, glazes, in sautés, and as a typical spice. Its pungent smell is usually lessened to a more manageable level when cooked in oil or ghee. It had been used for thousands of years in its native land and it started growing popular in Europe and neighboring regions after the 16th century. ^[1]

However, the real benefit of asafoetida is in the realm of herbal medicine, where it has dozens of common uses. It is composed of approximately 15% volatile oils, including ferulic acid, certain tannols, and a variety of other active components that contribute to the health benefits regularly recorded as a result of consumption. ^[2]

Health Benefits of Asafoetida

Let’s take a more in-depth look at the many impressive health benefits of asafoetida.

Anticancer Potential

A 2013 study in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry concludes that asafoetida shows the potential to act as an anticancer agent. This inference was reached after observing the high rate of cancer incidence in countries such China, Japan, Indonesia, etc. as compared to countries like Afghanistan, Iran, India, etc. where asafoetida is a fundamental ingredient. ^[3]

In 2015, an animal study noted that medium doses of this herb derivative might have a chemopreventive effect against colon carcinogenesis, thus providing further scope for development. ^[4]

Additionally, a 2017 review published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine sheds lights on its anticarcinogenic, anticancer, and anticytotoxicity effects observed in animal studies. ^[5]

According to the observations of another animal study published in 2017, it was found to have antitumor and antimetastatic effects in case of breast cancer. However, further clinical studies are required to determine the anticancer potential of asafoetida on humans. ^[6]

Asafoetida, or hing, is known as the world’s smelliest spice. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Analgesic Properties

Although the exact mechanism of pain relief is still a bit mysterious, asafoetida has been recommended as a safe analgesic for a wide range of pain levels and symptoms, from chronic pain from injuries or surgeries to the colic pain of toddlers. It is known to eliminate many of the primary conditions that cause pain, such as eliminating bloating and flatulence build-up in infants, thereby relieving their crying and pain. Whatever your pain symptoms happen to be, adding a bit of asafoetida to your diet certainly won’t hurt. ^[7]

Skin Care

Insect bites are annoying no matter what country you’re from, and that itching irritation can almost drive you mad. Fortunately, if you create a paste based of asafoetida, you can apply it directly to the spot of the bug bite to speed healing and reduce inflammation, which should also eliminate your desire to constantly scratch it! ^[8]

Boosts Fertility

One of the ancient uses of asafoetida is its use as a sexual stimulant, and it is well-known to eliminate symptoms of impotence or infertility in men and women. By stimulating hormonal activity and boosting energy and blood flow, asafoetida is basically an aphrodisiac that is easily accessible and has no side-effects except a better sex life.

Improves Digestion

As mentioned earlier, asafoetida is often prescribed for those suffering from gas, intestinal worms, IBS, indigestion, and basically any disorder that is affecting your gastrointestinal system. This can include reducing cramping, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, and excess flatulence, as well as food poisoning and more serious stomach issues, such as colorectal cancer. ^[9]

Boosts Immunity

As an antiviral, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant substance, asafoetida is ideal for treating respiratory conditions. It can help to eliminate excess mucus and phlegm from the system, while also neutralizing and bacteria or pathogens that may be in the respiratory tracts, effectively boosting your immune system and letting you breathe easy, even if you suffer from conditions like asthma. ^[10]

Relieves Headache

In a similar anti-inflammatory capacity as explained earlier, asafoetida has long been relied on to soothe the pain of headaches. By improving blood flow in the capillaries and eliminating excess free radicals, asafoetida can eliminate the tension and pain of headaches and migraines quite effectively. ^[11]

Reduces Nervous Disorders

It seems that the list of benefits from asafoetida never stops; you can also use this taproot resin to soothe the body and mind, making it an effective treatment for hysteria, mood swings, chronic anxiety, depression, and stress. This is a crucial health benefit of asafoetida, as all of these disorders can wreak havoc on your overall system if not properly regulated and controlled. ^[12]

Improves Reproductive Health

Progesterone is one of the most important elements for female reproductive health, and asafoetida stimulates the production of this crucial hormone. This can help to increase the safety of expectant mothers by preventing premature births, excessive bleeding, and sterility, while also lessening the symptoms of menstruations for women in general. ^[13]

Treats Toothaches & Earaches

Another popular traditional use of asafoetida is in the treatment of toothaches and earaches. You can make a mouth rinse with asafoetida and water for toothaches and an ear drop mixture with coconut oil for earaches. Both of these benefits are due to the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial effects of this useful and versatile resin. ^[14]

A Final Word of Warning: Excessive consumption of asafoetida can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and urination discomfort. Furthermore, if used for extended periods by pre-menopausal women, it can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. As is always recommended, consult your medical professional or trained herbalist before adding such a powerful (but beneficial) substance to your diet.

90,000 useful properties and correct application

Asafoetida is a strong-smelling resin derived from an umbrella plant native to Iran and Afghanistan. Typically, the dried gum is ground into powder and mixed with rice flour to give the asafoetida a powder. The percentage of flour can be different, the lower it is, the less spice you need to add to the dishes.

This spice in powder can be bought in stores with Indian goods and spices, online stores in various packages.Pure resin is sold mainly in India, Afghanistan, Iran. Moreover, the Afghan asafoetida is considered the best, and the Indian one is the worst :). But the cost of the Afghani spice is several times higher than the Indian one.

The use of asafoetida in cooking

Asafoetida spice is one of the most important ingredients in Vedic cooking. It successfully replaces onions and garlic, while leaving no smell.

It can be added to appetizers, soups, vegetable dishes and side dishes, salads, in general, wherever you add onions or garlic.

Asafoetida enhances digestion so much that in India they say that even nails can be digested with it. Therefore, it must be added to indigestible foods such as legumes. It also improves appetite well, helps with belching, eliminates gas and improves the tone of the body.

Dosage and Proper Use of Asafoetida in Cooking:

Usually, no more than a quarter teaspoon of asafoetida powder is sufficient per serving. It should be added at the end of cooking in order to preserve its aroma as much as possible.

Pure asafoetida in resin in India is first dissolved in hot water (white “asafoetid milk” is obtained, which the Indians call “hing ki dudh”), and then added to the dish at the end of cooking. Pure resin is enough to take on the tip of a knife for one serving. If you put too much of it, an unpleasant bitterness will appear.

If you are preparing masala (spices fried in oil) for seasoning a prepared dish, then asafoetida can be fried along with the rest of the spices.

Do not put asafoetida at the beginning of cooking, otherwise it will lose essential oils and will not be felt in the dish.

Useful properties and use of asafoetida for medical purposes

At angina , you should mix a pinch of asafoetida and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric with a glass of warm water and gargle with this solution. The antiseptic and analgesic properties of these spices will help a quick recovery.

If you add asafoetida to water and drink in small sips, then it will immediately clear the voice .

It is also good for beginning cataracts in the form of an ointment with honey.

The resin mixed with olive oil can be applied to the bite of poisonous insects or a rabid dog, as it protects against the action of poisons .

Inhalation of the scent of tar prevents attacks hysteria . Children suffering from mental disorders, an enema of 1/2 tbsp. water and a pinch of asafoetida will have a calming effect.

To subside toothache , you should dissolve a pinch of asafoetida in 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, heat a little and apply a swab soaked in this solution to the aching tooth.

If you mix asafoetida with pomegranate juice and drink it, it will help with muscle tears and nerve pains.

This spice is a very powerful stimulant of digestion . It has strong antimicrobial and bactericidal properties and removes parasitic tapeworms from the gastrointestinal tract.

Asafoetida is also used for the threat of miscarriage, infertility, leucorrhoea, in the postpartum period, as well as to increase potency.

Contraindications:

Do not abuse the spice at high temperatures, pregnancy, high acidity, and rash.

Asafoetida: properties and uses | Stanislav Milevich

Asafoetida is by no means a well-known spice that has many healing properties and various uses. People call it smelly ferula, because it is from the roots of the plant of the same name that milk is produced, which, upon contact with the air, turns into resin-latex, and then grinds with rice or wheat flour and turns into a spice called asafoetida.

Composition of asafoetida

In dry form, asafoetida includes ferulic acid, or gum, coumarins, essential oils, sesquiterpenes, terpenes, a complex of carbon oxides, and some other substances.

Useful properties of asafoetida

This seasoning helps to improve the digestive process, as well as the fastest elimination of food accumulated in the gastrointestinal tract. It helps to eliminate unpleasant belching, prevents flatulence, and also has an analgesic effect.

Asafoetida can also be used to treat various skin diseases, severe headaches, to increase mental and physical function, to restore normal hormonal balance, and to relieve nervous tension.

Asafoetida can be an effective adjuvant in the treatment of diseases such as sciatica, polyarthritis, osteochondrosis and arthrosis. It is often recommended to use this spice in the treatment of a number of gynecological diseases. It helps to ease the flow of menstruation, as well as reduce the unpleasant symptoms of menopause.

Asafoetida: harm and contraindications

It is not advisable to use asafoetida in case of serious skin problems, high body temperature, as well as with increased acidity of the stomach.Abuse of this seasoning is dangerous in case of allergic reactions, as well as during pregnancy.

Culinary Uses of Asafetida:

In Asian cuisine, this spice is often used to replace onions and garlic. In its properties, it is similar to garlic, but its action and smell are stronger.

Asafoetida is used in resin and powder form. The resin is consumed very carefully, and it is absolutely necessary to fry it in oil. In addition to a significant improvement in taste, asafoetida also dissolves better in fat and is more evenly distributed in food.

The resin is used in very small quantities – one pea can be used to flavor a large saucepan. Asafoetida powder is obtained by mixing resin with rice flour. Thus, the concentration of taste decreases, and then it is much more convenient to add asafoetida to food. In addition, the powder can be used without frying. Its only drawback is that the aroma disappears rather quickly, while the resin retains its smell for decades.

Asafoetida cannot be combined with onions or garlic, but perfectly replaces them.As a result of special heat treatment with the addition of ginger, caraway seeds, turmeric, as well as a small amount of vegetable oil, this seasoning acquires a very pleasant and noble taste.

Asafoetida goes well with cheeses, tomatoes, rice, corn, potatoes, peas and some other vegetables. Mashed potatoes with the addition of a fried mixture of asafoetida, cumin seeds, chili powder and turmeric is one of the simplest and surprisingly delicious dishes. It is also very important not to overdo it with the amount of this seasoning when cooking.

Store asafoetida in a tight, double wrapped container (in a glass jar under a lid on the balcony).

Treatment with Asafoetida

– Drinking asafoetida in pomegranate juice helps with muscle tearing and nerve pain caused by spasms or paralysis.

– Dissolved in water and slowly drunk, it instantly clears the voice and helps with chronic rough throat.

– Pain in the abdomen will relieve if asafoetida is dissolved in hot water, moistened with a cloth and applied on the stomach.Abdominal pain goes away if you brew 1 tsp. equal parts of ground cardamom, fennel and asafoetida in a glass of boiling water.

– For whooping cough, asthma and bronchitis, mix a pinch of asafoetida with 2 tsp. honey, 1/4 tsp. juice of white onions. Take 3 times a day.

– Inhalation of the scent of asafoetida resin prevents attacks of hysteria.

– A small piece of resin hanging around a child’s neck will calm and protect him from many infectious diseases.

– An enema prepared from a pinch of asafoetida in half a glass of water will soothe a child’s hysterics.

– Asafoetida is used for infertility, the threat of miscarriage, painful menstruation and leucorrhoea: fry a pinch of asafoetida in ghee, mix with 0.5 glass of goat’s milk and 1 tsp. honey. Take 3 times a day for a month.

– Asafoetida improves digestion and acts as a tonic, it is also recommended for women in the postpartum period, when the body needs additional support.

– It helps against toothache if you dissolve asafoetida in half a teaspoon of lemon juice, heat it and put it on the tooth in a cotton swab.

– For angina, it helps in the form of a rinse, which is prepared from a pinch of asafoetida and 0.5 teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of warm water.

– It is good to use in the form of an ointment with honey for incipient cataracts.

useful properties – Yoga Lifestyle blog

Asafoetida is one of the main spices of Vedic cooking.It gives a savory flavor to traditional dishes. The taste of this spice resembles onion and garlic combined, only after using asafoetida there is no aftertaste and unpleasant odor. Asafoetida has not only a unique taste, but is also capable of healing and rejuvenating the human body.

That is why Asafoetida deserves to get to know her better.

Asafoetida comes to our table in the form of a powder. And it is made from the juice of the roots of the ferula plant. This herbaceous plant grows in the mountainous regions of India, Afghanistan, Iran.It is not surprising that asafoetida received the main distribution in the cuisine of these countries. Ferula juice, which is rich in essential oils, is dried to a resin, which is crushed and mixed with rice flour.

Dry spice has an unpleasant and pungent odor that spreads quickly and lasts for a very long time. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the asafoetida well closed. But in dishes, under the influence of a low temperature, asafetida reveals its really amazing taste.

Asafoetida is capable of increasing the digestive capacity several times, therefore it must be added to dishes that are difficult to digest.If you use asafoetida, then all types of legumes will be well absorbed and will not cause an increased formation of gas in the intestines.

The composition of asafoetida is not as rich as that of most spices. But the possibilities for recovery are great. Asafoetida does not contain a variety of vitamins or minerals. Its therapeutic effect is provided by essential oils and resins.

In oriental medicine, asafoetida is used to treat the following diseases:

1. Diseases of the digestive system, not accompanied by high acidity.
2. Respiratory and viral diseases of the throat, upper respiratory tract, as well as bacterial infections.
3. Enterobiasis and other types of parasite infestation.
4. Joint pain and pain in the spine (osteochondrosis, sciatica).
5. Inflammatory processes in the ears, eyes.
6. Pain and spasms in women with gynecological problems, impotence.
7. Helps in the treatment of infertility and prevents miscarriages.
8. Relieves attacks of hysteria.

How to use asafoetida in cooking?

In order to fully develop the taste and aroma of asafoetida, it must be added at the very end of the preparation of the dish.You can separately warm up asafoetida in butter or ghee and add it to the finished dish. To prepare salads, dilute asafoetida with a small amount of warm water (50-60 degrees), you get a kind of milk, add it to the salad dressing.

How to use asafoetida medicinally?

Solution for rinsing and lotions. Dissolve ¼ teaspoon of asafoetida and ½ teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of warm water.

For oral use, mix ¼ teaspoon of asafoetida with 2 teaspoons of honey.Divide the resulting mixture into 3 doses.

Solution for prevention and treatment. Dissolve a pinch of asafoetida in a glass of warm water and drink at one time.

What are the contraindications for the use of asafoetida?

• Allergic reactions.
• High temperature.
• Increased acidity.

Asafoetida is not recommended to be consumed in large quantities. The maximum dose for an adult is ¼ teaspoon per day. In baby food, asafoetida can be used by reducing the amount to half the adult dose.

Try asafoetida and add an oriental flavor to your dishes. Discover its unusual taste and aroma. If you use asafoetida correctly, your food will be delicious and healthy!

Asafoetida powder 100g

The world’s most unusual spice, asafoetida (khing), is the resin of the roots of the ferula asafoetida plant.

Pure resin without admixtures in the form of tiles is available only in Iran, Afghanistan and India. In our country, this spice is sold only in powder form – for this, the dried resin is ground and mixed with rice flour.

The spice has a milder taste than onions and garlic, and due to its unique beneficial properties, this resin has been used in oriental medicine since ancient times.

Asafoetida successfully treats impotence, rejuvenates internal organs, soothes and softens the manifestations of menopause. Aromatic resin is indispensable in the treatment of arthritis, osteochondrosis, radiculitis and in restoring the normal hormonal levels of the body. Intestinal and skin parasites are easily expelled from the body when using asafoetida, and this is not surprising, since only gourmets can endure this piquant spice.By the way, hing stimulates appetite, improves digestion, prevents gas formation in the intestines and facilitates the digestion of very heavy foods, therefore it is recommended to season meat and legumes with this spice.

When using a pure hinga, very little of the mixture (at the tip of a knife) is taken for one portion of the finished dish, which should be previously dissolved in water and only then added to the food. Powdered asafoetida is enough to take ¼ tsp. per serving, and to give it additional flavors, the spice can be fried in oil along with ginger, caraway seeds, black mustard and turmeric.Eastern chefs recommend adding asafoetida at the end of a dish, rather than at the beginning, as the resin contains essential oils that quickly fade away and the spice will not be felt in the dish.

Asafoetida adds spice to salads, appetizers, soups and main courses, so it can be placed wherever onions and garlic are acceptable.

Nutritional value of 100 g of product:

• The weight
  100g
• Country
  India

Spice Asafoetida

Asafoetida or Ferula smelly (Ferula assa-foetida) – exotic spice with the most terrible smell, obtained from the milky juice of the roots
plants.By the strength of an unpleasant odor, it is several times superior to garlic and onions. It is appreciated in Asia, where culinary experts know how to properly prepare asafoetida. Since ancient times spice asafoetida
used in medicine.
Has the following names among the people: hing, asmargok, ilan, bad spirit, damn dung.

The use of asafoetida spice in cooking
The taste and smell of asafoetida spice can only be endured by a true gourmet. The smell is more unpleasant than garlic and onions combined, leaving
the walls of a hermetically sealed container (in which it is vital to store asafoetida), in a few minutes it will soak through all the space and objects and will hold its position
at least 24 hours.Having tasted asafoetida, you will feel it for long hours and cannot be overcome by any means.
A natural question arises – for the sake of all this suffering? You can find the answer yourself if, while cooking, fry a small amount of asafoetida resin in oil – taste and smell
soften, and when mixed with some spices (a good combination with turmeric,
caraway seeds, ginger,
black mustard; not compatible with onions and garlic, but replaces them)
becomes noble and very tasty.
Asafoetida is found both in the form of a resin (stable properties for a long time) and in powder form (the shelf life is rather short). Asafoetida resin must be applied
very carefully, in very scanty quantities, be sure to fry it in oil. The powder is obtained by mixing resin with rice or wheat flour – it is more convenient to use and not
be sure to fry. In addition, the concentration of odor in such a powder is much lower.
Asafoetida is popular as a spice in Asian countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, India, where it actually grows.Spice is added to tricky
digestible dishes from fatty lamb, rice and vegetables are cooked with it, as well as flat cakes, and various canned foods are prepared. Asafoetida is used in
microscopic amounts for flavoring salty, spicy (rarely sweet) foods. Included in curry spice mixtures, garam masala.
People who, for whatever reason, do not eat onions or garlic, can successfully replace them with asafoetida.
Asafoetida is often used in legumes, which are one of the few sources of protein for vegetarians.In addition, the spice is considered
It is a good anti-bloating agent and aids in digestion, which adds value to its use with legumes. As they say in India, with the help of asafetida you can
digest the nails.
Asafoetida, which has a spicy hot taste, kindles the fire of digestion, increases appetite, tones, heals the body, successfully replacing garlic and onion
leaving bad breath.

Use in medicine spices asafoetida
Asafoetida has been used in medicine since ancient times.
The source of the medicinal properties of asafoetida is the milky juice of the roots dried in the air, which is also called gum or latex,
acquiring a yellow color on the surface (while in ground form the spice is white).
From this frozen juice in the pharmaceutical industry, various remedies are made used for nervous diseases, hysteria; against asthma, cough;
anticonvulsants; improving digestion.
Asafoetida is popular as a spice for the digestion of heavy food.Used with spices such as
ginger, cardamom and rock salt.
Asafoetida is also used to treat polyarthritis, radiculitis, osteochondrosis, it restores the hormonal functions of the adrenal glands and gonads,
has antispasmodic, sedative and laxative properties. Since ancient times and to the present day, with the help of asafoetida, they get rid of ear and toothache.
It is used against intestinal and skin parasites.
The potency-restoring properties of asafoetida are sung in the Kama Sutra, as well as in treatises on Tibetan medicine, claiming that the spice “removes anxiety in the heart and
rejuvenates organs that are destroyed by old age … “.
Topically, as a paste, asafoetida is used for abdominal pain, arthritis and other joint pain.

Description of the spice asafoetida
The homeland of Asafoetida is Iran and Afghanistan. It also grows in the Mediterranean, Central Asia, the deserts of the Karakum, Kyzylkum and Badkhyz. Until the 90s, huge thickets of Asafoetida were in
Zailiyskiy Alatau on the territory of the USSR, but were destroyed. A story with a similar ending took place in North Africa. Introduced there in the 6th century BC.NS. Asafoetida was clean
destroyed in the 1st century A.D., paradoxically, because of the huge demand for it.
Asafoetida is currently listed in the Red Book and is considered an endangered plant. This spice grows in sufficient quantities in Iran and Afghanistan.
Asafoetida is undemanding to growing conditions and prefers rocks, talus, deserts. In height, this umbrella can reach 1.5 – 3 meters for 6-10 years of life. At the same time
Asafoetida blooms only once with small yellow flowers with a terrible smell.The spice is obtained from the juice of the roots. The painstaking process of extracting asafoetida resin takes 2-3 months.
In mid-April, asafoetida collectors dig a hole around the plant, pick off the dry leaves coming from the roots, and clean the tops of the roots. After that, the roots are buried again and
cover them with dry leaves, and on top – with a stone. In the second half of May, pickers return to dig up the roots again and cut the top off just below the junction with the leaves. White juice emerges from the cut, which turns red in air.A small canopy is erected over it, protecting it from the sun and dust. After two days, the juice will thicken and can be collected. The new cut will be very thin and the thickened latex will be harvested in 4-5 days, after the third cut in 8-10 days, and so on until the juice stops oozing from the root. Up to 1,300 grams of fresh latex are obtained from one bush.
Ready-made asafoetida – almond-shaped “grains” of resin, glued together, with a very pungent odor. They are yellowish on the outside and milky white with pinkish veins in the section.In air, the cut surface becomes purple-red, then red-brown. The best quality asafoetida is resin in large, elastic, bright pieces. At elevated temperatures, it looks like wax, in the cold it crumbles easily.
Asafoetida is divided into two trade categories in Asia – khing and khingra. Khing can be Iranian and Afghan, and Iranian varieties are valued higher. The highest grade among the Hinga is Khalda, it is believed that he
the purest and most aromatic. Medium varieties are shabandi and kabulidan. Khingra is the lowest category of asafoetida, it is not divided into varieties.

Perfumers who understand a lot about smells add asafoetida extract to some colognes and perfumes.

Only one type of asafoetida is used as a spice – Ferula assa-foetida. There are other types of it.
Gum-bearing ferula (F. galbaniflua), similar in appearance to other ferula, common in Turkmenistan, Iran and Afghanistan. The milky sap of this plant is not edible,
it is collected for medicinal purposes, using as a carminative, expectorant and anticonvulsant.

History of the spice asafoetida
There is a version that even prehistoric man used asafoetida to transfer fire from place to place. The word Ferula in Latin means “porter” and is associated
with the myth of Prometheus, who transmitted fire to people in asafoetida – a hollow reed.
In Ancient Greece and Rome, this spice was highly valued for its medicinal properties (it relieved headaches, had a calming effect on the nervous system and promoted the work of the intestines)
and for the pungent, pungent taste that it imparts to food.In ancient times, it was said that even a horse could be cured of indigestion with it.
The remarkable Persian philosopher and physician Avicenna, in the Canon of Medicine, writes about the healing properties of asafoetida:
abscesses “.
Merchants delivered the spice asafoetida to European markets from the Middle East.
When the Romans went on military campaigns, they had to endure an extremely unpretentious daily menu – lentil stew, which gives a lot of energy, but causes bloating.Asafoetida added to food was a real salvation.
The troops of Alexander the Great brought asafoetida to England, where it was cultivated until the 18th century. Subsequently, Asafoetida will lose European fans, her last stronghold in
German producers of fatty sausages will be in Europe.
Today asafoetida is valued in Persia and India, but little known in the West and in Russia (we used to know it as a medicine before).

Dishes with spice asafoetida

Stories with Asafoetida Spice

Asafoetida | Spices, aromatic herbs | About food | Cooking School

Latin name: Ferula asafoetida
English name – Asafoetida
Sanskrit – Hingu (hingu)

Asafoetida – herbaceous perennial, resembling giant umbrellas of ripe dill, the stem grows up to 3 m.The plant is widespread in Iran, Afghanistan, India. Grown in the countries of Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean.

The first word in the scientific name of the plant – Ferula – means “carrier” in Latin. Asa in Farsi is “resin”, and the Latin adjective foetidus is translated as “fetid.” In some languages, Asafoetida has received even more repulsive naming conventions. For example, in France it is known as merde du Diable – the devil’s feces. The Swedish word Dyvelsträck (“devil’s excrement”), German Teufelsdreck (“devil’s manure”), Turkish Seytan Boku (“devil’s shit”) have about the same meaning.The folk names of this plant in other European countries do not shine with sophistication. But in Ancient Persia asafoetida was called “Food of the Gods”.

Spice

The spice is extracted from the root of the plant. It is not dug out, but only the upper part is exposed, at the base of the stem, then covered with loose earth and leaves. This is just a preparatory stage. After a month, the collectors return, the massive root is again cleaned, incised and the juice that emerges is collected over a period of several days.The root is then re-incised in a different location and the collection of resin continues. Thus, one plant is able to release up to a liter of milky juice.

Freshly isolated thick grayish white gum. Drying, it turns into a resinous mass of amber-yellow hue. Then a sticky, granular yellow-brown substance is formed, while inside the grains are white. Chilled texture crumbles easily. Pure asafoetida lumps or tiles are rarely sold. Such a product can be found only in the markets of eastern countries.
The dried resin isolated from the rhizome of the plant is used in cooking as a spice, and in pharmacology as an ingredient in medicines.

For use as a spice, the dry substance is ground into powder. The most common mixture of this powder with turmeric (turmeric), rice or wheat flour and ground gum arabic (acacia gum). It is more convenient to use the powder. It has a much less pungent odor than pure resin, and tastes like a mixture of leeks and garlic.

Interesting facts

In Greek mythology, the rebellious titan-enlightener Prometheus brought people divine fire in a hollow dry stem of a ferula.

In Medieval Europe, asafoetida was used in rituals of exorcism – the expulsion of demons and demons that torment the human soul. Most of the “clients” of the Holy Inquisition were the mentally ill, suffering from epilepsy. It is curious that in the Christian Church, both Orthodox and Catholic, the rites of exorcism of demonic entities are practiced to this day, in theological seminaries exorcism is one of the obligatory disciplines, and asafoetida is an indispensable component of a special incense for this procedure.

Medieval herbalists advised wearing a piece of asafoetida resin in a linen neck bag during epidemics, they believed that the pungent smell exuded by the resin would protect against the miasms of disease. Perhaps the effectiveness of the amulet consisted in the fact that infected people were simply wary of approaching the bearer of the amulet with a pungent nauseating odor, because one of the names of asafoetida is a bad spirit.

Chemical composition

Mucous resin of asafoetida contains 5-10% of essential oil, ferulic acid.Organic sulfides give off a pungent odor.

Cooking applications

Asafoetida is the most widely used spice in India.

Bread is baked with her, rice, legumes and vegetables are cooked – the recipe of many Indian dishes provides for asafoetida. It plays an important aromatic role in Indian vegetarian diets. Almost all meat dishes of Iranian and Afghan cuisine cannot do without this spice.

From ancient sources it is known that once a spice for Roman culinary specialists was a similar plant, which was common only in one region – on the Cyrenaica plateaus in Libya, which was then a province of the Roman Empire.It is reported that intensive mining led to the extinction of the plant as early as the beginning of our era. Since then, this spice has been forgotten in European cuisine for a long time. Asafoetid resin, brought from distant eastern countries, was used only as a rare ingredient in medicinal drugs.

The second “discovery” of Asafoetida by Europeans was largely initiated by the British who colonized India, but this useful spice is still rarely used in Western cooking.

In Germany, Austria and Britain, asafoetida is included in the recipe of several types of hot spicy sausages, it is added to roasts and stews, vegetable dishes.

French chefs apply a little asafoetida resin to the surface of a hot plate and then serve the steak on it.

Compatibility with other spices

Asafoetida goes well with curry, all kinds of hot peppers (black, allspice, chili, etc.), nutmeg, tarragon, ginger. It harmonizes with grated horseradish, mustard and cumin seeds, turmeric, bay leaves. Onions and garlic are not added to dishes with asafoetida.

Dosage

In relation to asafoetida resin (in its pure form), even the concept of “pinch” is inapplicable.You need to add spice to cooked dishes in microscopic doses, on the tip of a knife or spoon. In the dosage of asafoetida, you must strictly adhere to the recipe, even a small excess can hopelessly spoil the taste of food.
As for asafoetida in powder form mixed with flour, it should also be added in small quantities – no more than 1/4 -1/2 teaspoon per dish for 4-5 people.

Subtleties of use

When using asafoetida, you should not touch it with your hands – it will be impossible to get rid of the all-pervading specific odor on your fingers for several hours.Pure resin requires special preparation – it is recommended to dip the spice lump in well-heated oil, so that the spice dissolves evenly. It will also eliminate unpleasant notes in the smell – only a pleasant spicy aroma will stand out. Powdered asafoetida does not need such an oil-heat treatment; it can simply be added to the prepared dish.

How to store

Attention! Asafoetida is a very specific spice. Its sulphurous pungent onion-garlic smell is so ubiquitous and strong that this pure resin must be stored in sealed containers, otherwise it will spread to other spices and foods, soak clothes and upholstery.The all-pervading spirit of Asafoetida “will settle” even in the wallpaper on the walls. For a secure seal, place the container of clean resin in a larger sealed container. Powdered asafoetida has a less pungent aroma, but should also be stored in a secure, airtight container.

Medicinal properties

Asafoetida has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. This is a real “first aid” for digestion. It works immediately.Indigestion, intestinal cramps and flatulence are the main indications for the use of asafoetida. Of all the spices, it has the most pronounced anti-spasmodic and analgesic effect and is used both externally in the form of compresses and internally. It helps in the digestion of heavy, protein-rich or gas-producing foods. Preparations based on asafoetida have antibacterial properties, pronounced anthelmintic effect, restore microflora, treat constipation. Hingvastak Churna – Asafoetida-based Ayurvedic medicine is one of the most famous and effective remedies for indigestion and other digestive problems.

Due to its anti-inflammatory and pronounced analgesic effect, asafoetida is used for toothache and sore throat.

Asafoetida is useful for bronchitis, whooping cough, it helps asthmatics and those suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis.

The spice can be used to treat a number of female pathologies, for example, with painful menstruation.

Preparations with asafoetida remove patients from hysterical and neurasthenic states, are used in the treatment of manic psychosis, epilepsy and schizophrenia.

Contraindications

Asafoetida must be abandoned during pregnancy and lactation, at high temperatures, increased acidity of gastric juice, urticaria and skin rash.

Treatment doses

For medicinal purposes, it is preferable to use pure resin. The spice is used in small doses – from 125 to 150 mg per day. In powdered asafoetida, the percentage of the resin itself is most often unknown, so it is difficult to accurately dose the spice in this form.

Spicy first aid kit

Sore throat with colds and sore throats.

Recipe: pinch of asafoetida powder, 1/2 tsp. turmeric.
Directions: Stir the asafoetida and turmeric in a glass of warm water.
Directions: Gargle with this solution several times a day.

Toothache.

Recipe: pinch of asafoetida powder, lemon juice.
Directions: Mix asafoetida with a few drops of lemon juice to make a gruel. Heat it slightly.
Application: Place the gruel on a cotton swab and apply it to the gum or aching tooth.

Abdominal pain (intestinal gas and colic).

Recipe: Equal parts ground cardamom, fennel and asafoetida powder.
Directions: Brew 1 tsp. mixture in a glass of boiling water.Let it brew a little and cool.
Application: Slowly drink the resulting infusion.

Asafoetida (Hing) powder, Strong Hing Ramdev, 25 gr

Description

Asafoetida Powder (Hing), Strong Hing Ramdev is a very important seasoning in Indian cooking, added to stewed vegetables, legumes, meat, sauces, etc. As a spice replaces onions and garlic, it goes well with such Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, mustard and ginger.

Medicinal properties

In Ayurvedic medicine it is used as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, laxative, expectorant and sedative.

It is a powerful antioxidant and protects the cells of the body from free radicals. According to studies, the anti-carcinogenic properties of Asafoetida stop the growth of malignant cells.

Indications for use

• Indigestion, gastrointestinal problems – with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it helps to improve digestion, eliminate indigestion, flatulence, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), etc.Excellent laxative, prevents constipation.
• Menstrual Problems: is a powerful remedy for many women’s problems such as pain and cramps during menstruation, menstrual irregularities, and in the treatment of candidiasis.
• Impotence: This culinary herb is used to treat impotence in men, to increase libido, and is an aphrodisiac.
• Breathing Disorder: Hing One of the oldest remedies used to treat respiratory tract infections, it acts as a respiratory stimulant and expectorant to release phlegm and relieve chest congestion.Mixed with honey and ginger it is used in the treatment of respiratory disorders: chronic dry cough, whooping cough, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, etc. It is successfully used in the fight against influenza.