Asafoetida – Hing

Botanical Name: Ferula northrax or Ferula foetida

Asafoetida is a resinous gum of a tall perennial herb, with robust roots. It is yellow in color with a pungent smell. Asafoetida is available in several types and distributed from the Mediterranean region to Central Asia. It is abundantly grown in Kashmir, Western Tibet, Afghanistan.

It has carbohydrates 67.8%, moisture 16 %, protein 4 %, fat 1.1 %, minerals 7 %, fiber 4.1 %. The minerals contains – phosphorus, iron, carotene, riboflavin, and niacin. The caloric value is 297.

Healing qualities of herb or spice:

Respiratory disorders: It is beneficial for whooping cough, asthma, bronchitis. It can be taken 1/8 teaspoon, mixed with 2 teaspoons of honey, 1/4 teaspoon red onion juice taken before meals / 2 times daily helps for respiratory conditions.