- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (Afghanistan, Iran, Central Asia)
- Sanskrit
- Hingu
- Other names
- Asafoetida
Asia · Herb · № 495
Ferula foetida
Herb · Asia
Asafoetida
Ferula foetida
Traditionally attributed effects: stimulating, carminative, antispasmodic, expectorant, mildly laxative, expels worms, promotes menstruation, stimulates nerves and lungs.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Gum resin in small amounts: usually 125–500 mg a day, or a pinch in dishes.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Hingu. Asafoetida (hing) is the thickened resin of a giant fennel from Iran and Afghanistan. In small amounts, fried in oil, it gives Indian lentil dishes an onion-like flavour and prevents wind. In Chinese medicine it is called a wei, in Unani medicine hiltit.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Stimulating, carminative, antispasmodic, expectorant, mildly laxative, expels worms, promotes menstruation, stimulates nerves and lungs; for hysteria, flatulence, intestinal cramps, nervous palpitations, whooping cough, pneumonia and bronchitis in children.
Preparation and amount
Gum resin in small amounts: usually 125–500 mg a day, or a pinch in dishes.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Powder and kitchen