Asafetida, is a dried gum obtained from the tap root of various species of Ferula.Asafetida has a strong pungent smell among all spices, but adds a subtle flavor to dishes when cooked with other spices.Asafetida health benefits can be obtained everyday when used in cooking. It can be mixed with virtually anything like vegetables, pulses, rice, meat, or fish.The pungent smell becomes lighter when added to hot oil. In addition, it holds importance in Jainism and Vaishnavism because Asafoetida adds a smooth flavor to vegetarian dishes that are prepared without using onion and garlic.You will never find a Indian household without this spice.
Its many names are asafetida,Hing,Perungayam,Devil's Dung, Food of the Gods, Stinking Gum, Giant Fennel, Yang, Kama-i-anguza, Hingu, Heeng.I always prefer to buy in blocks means whole Hing / Asafetida, as they remain fresh longer and I break it into small pieces, sun dry and store it.Grinding in mixer at home is easy and its smell and flavor remains fresh.
The herb originated in eastern Iran and western Afghanistan. It is chiefly cultivated in Afghanistan, Iran, and high-altitude areas of India and Pakistan. Asafoetida apart from being an important spice in our day to day cooking, occupies an important place in home remedies too.
Asafoetida is an ancient home remedy for indigestion. Asafoetida is an amazing spice to treat flatulence and expelling wind. Many suffer from gas when they consume lentils. Adding asafoetida in recipes prevents the problem and helps in quick digestion. A small pinch of asafoetida will go a long way and if you add too much, the dish will turn bitter.
Asafetida is considered to be helpful for women with menstrual issues like menstrual cramps, irregular periods, and pain. It is also useful in the treatment of Dysmenorrhoea.
Asafetida is one of the oldest remedies which have been used in India for treating respiratory tract infections and cough. It is very useful to relieve chest congestion and release of the phlegm. Its powder can be mixed with honey and ginger to get relief from cough.
For young babies, it is not advisable to give asafoetida internally. Even for toddlers, they will refuse to drink it as it has a very strong pungent smell. For treating young babies, we make a paste out of asafoetida and water and apply on the babies stomach. To know whether your baby is suffering from gas, touch their tummy, if it is tight and bloated than they are suffering from gas. Just apply asafoetida and they will be better in no time.
Due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, asafetida helps alleviate tooth pain and fight infection. It can also help treat bleeding gums and dental caries.Simply place a very small piece of asafetida on the aching tooth to get quick relief from a toothache.
The anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties of asafetida can help relieve an ear ache caused by an infection.Putting small piece of asafetida into boiling water, melts it.Use 2-3 drops of tis solution when it is lukewarm into the ear.
Whether you have a headache due to a common cold or a migraine, asafetida can surely solve your problem. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, asafetida can help reduce inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, which in turn will reduce headaches.
8.Cures Respiratory Disorders
Due to its anti inflammatory, antiviral and antibiotic effects, asafetida is often used to treat respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, dry cough, whooping cough and colds. Plus, it acts as a respiratory stimulant, which is very useful in relieving chest congestion and releasing phlegm.
Asafoetida can cause nausea and vomiting in some individuals. In addition, excessive intake of this herb can give rise to throat irritation, burping, swollen lips, stomach gas and diarrhea.
