ASAFOETIDA OR HING

Asafoetida or Hing (Indian name for the natural latex gum) has been an integral part of Indian cooking for centuries. The natural latex gum, extracted from perennial herb ferula, has lot of health benefits. It has a prominent place in traditional medicine; thanks to its carminative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative and diuretic properties. Considering its therapeutic and curative powers, asafoetida is also referred to as the Food for Life.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Reduce Bloating & Stomach Problems

Asafoetida is an old medicine for stomach problems including gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome -IBS, intestinal worms and flatulence; thanks to its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate such health issues.

Helps Relieve Bronchitis

Asafoetida also helps in relieving respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, dry cough, etc due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antibiotic effects. It also helps in relieving chest congestion
and releasing phlegm.

Lower Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Asafoetida is known to be a natural blood thinner and may help in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides. It is power-packed with coumarin, a compound that aids in improving blood flow, thereby preventing the formation of clots.

May Relieve Menstrual Pain

Menses are pretty uncomfortable for most women. It is a natural blood thinner and helps smooth blood flow resulting in reducing pain and cramps in abdomen and lower back area. It also promotes the regulation of progesterone secretion which help in uncomplicated menses.

DIFFERENT WAYS OF CONSUMING ASAFOETIDA

Consume a dash of hing on a daily basis by adding it into gravies and dals (Indian Cooked Lentils). Another option is to dissolve some hing in water and drink it daily for stomach disorder.

Mix asafoetida and dry ginger powder along with some honey. Consume this mixture to get relief from respiratory issues.

Mix a pinch of asafoetida, fenugreek powder and a pinch of salt in a cup of buttermilk and consume it during periods.