Hing or asafoetida is a resin obtained from the root of the Ferula plant, and is often used as a condiment to spice up dishes. With a pungent flavour and smell and its ability to generate warmth, Hing is a useful addition to your food if you suffer from indigestion and bloating.
Hing can help break down undigested substances and promote Vata and Kapha balance in the gut. Hing is the resinous sap from a variety of the Fennel plant, which turns dark brown on drying.
Used in cooking as a substitute for onions and garlic, its pungent taste and heating energy make it a useful antidote to indigestion and distension.
Ingredients
Hing (Ferula asafoetida) – 15g
Dosage and Directions
Directions
External: Dissolve 10g in 100ml of warmed sesame oil. Apply in a clockwise direction to the abdomen in case of discomfort.
Internal: Fry ¼ teaspoon with onions while cooking, particularly for high protein meals.
Good For
• Condiment
• Gut health
• Colic disorders
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place (below 30°C) away from direct sunlight.
Research
Hing (Ferula assafoetida)
Asafoetida has been held in great esteem among indigenous medicines from the earliest times in India. It is reputed as a drug which expels wind from the stomach and counteracts any spasmodic disorders. It is also a nervine stimulant, digestive agent and a sedative. Hot water extract of the dried gum is taken orally as a carminative, an antispasmodic, and an expectorant in chronic bronchitis.
An analysis of asafoetida shows it to consist of carbohydrates 67.8% per 100 gms, moisture 16.0%, protein 4.0%, fat 1.1%, minerals 7.0% and fiber 4.1%. Its mineral and vitamin contents include substantial calcium besides phosphorus, iron, carotene, riboflavin and niacin.
Recent studies including pharmacological and biological have also shown that asafoetida possess several activities, such as antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal, cancer chemopreventive, antidiabetic, antispasmodic, hypotensive and molluscicidal (1).
- Mahendra P, Bisht S. Ferula asafoetida: Traditional uses and pharmacological activity. Pharmacognosy reviews. 2012;6(12):141-6.
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