Ferula assafoetida, popularly known as asafoetida, is a dried gum obtained from the tap root of various species of Ferula. It is a perennial herb and is also known as devil’s dung, giant fennel, stinking gum, or hing. True to these names, asafoetida has a strong pungent smell, but adds a subtle flavor to dishes when cooked with other spices.
Asafoetida health benefits are many; it is an antiepileptic, antimicrobial, laxative, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antispasmodic, and anti-flatulent agent.
Asafoetida helps reduce flatulence, digestive disorders, prevents constipation and is an excellent laxative. A pinch of asafoetida can be taken with butter milk to reduce flatulence and cleanse the digestive system.
Granules of asafoetida can be dissolved in water and taken for relieving migraines and headaches. Asafoetida is also a natural remedy for colic in babies by placing a small amount of warm asafoetida on the baby’s stomach.
Asafoetida also acts as an anti-coagulant and helps lower blood pressure.
Asafoetida is favorable for women’s health as it helps counter leucorrhoea, dysmenorrhea, excessive and painful menstruation, and has positive benefits in treating candida infection.
Note:- It is best to consult a physician if you want to consume larger doses to counter specific illnesses such as heart conditions, liver problems, and nervous disorders. In most cases, side effects of asafetida are temporary and can be treated.