5 Health Benefits Of Ancient Roman Spice Asafoetida (Hing)

Back in the days of the Roman Empire, there was a substance used to naturally cure health problems ranging from respiratory troubles to hysteria. Today, it’s still used in modern herbalism for treating hysteria, some nervous conditions, as well as bronchitis, asthma and whooping cough. It’s called asafoetida, and there’s some evidence it acts as an antispasmodic, expectorant, natural laxative, digestive aid and sedative.

A crucial ingredient in Indian cooking, asafoetida is often used to flavor vegetarian dishes, such as those made with lentils and cauliflower. While some initially find it’s smell off-putting, when heated it evokes a flavor similar to an onion or a leek.

Medicinally speaking, some studies have found that chemicals in asafoetida may help treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which now affects over 10 percent of the population globally. But that’s not all. This resinous gum has a host of health benefits that I share below.

* Asthma Relief

As a potent respiratory stimulant and expectorant, asafoetida may help release phlegm and relieve chest congestion. It’s used in traditional medicine for asthma, whooping cough and bronchitis.

The volatile oil in the asafoetida gum is eliminated through the lungs, which is why it can be an excellent treatment for asthma and other lung-related issues.

* Lowers Blood Pressure

Asafoetida is a natural blood thinner and can help to lower blood pressure. It’s packed with coumarin, a compound that aids in improving your blood flow and thinning your blood, thereby potentially preventing blood clots.

Scientists have been able to isolate certain phytochemicals in the Ferula species that have helpful cardiovascular effects. Research using animal subjects has shown that Ferula asafoetida gum extract significantly reduces average arterial blood pressure. The gum extract seems to contain relaxant compounds that have a positive effect on blood pressure and cardiovascular health in general, thanks in part to these phytonutrients.

* Helps Treat IBS

Asafoetida has been studied and found to be a successful homeopathic remedy for those suffering from IBS symptoms, such as diarrhea and constipation, intestinal gas, bloating and cramping.

A 14-week, double-blind study treated IBS sufferers people with asafoetida or a placebo. Results showed that subjects taking the homeopathic remedy of asafoetida improved to a greater extent than those taking placebo.

* Blood Sugar Control

Animal studies have shown that asafoetida might be an effective and natural way to help keep blood sugar levels in check and maintain normal blood sugar.

When this extract was given to diabetic animal subjects at a dose of 50 milligrams per kilogram for four weeks, researchers observed a blood sugar-lowering effect. The study concluded that this effect is likely due to the presence of phenolic acids, specifically ferulic acid, and tannins in asafoetida extract.

* Reduces Flatulence

Asafoetida has traditionally been used to expel wind from the stomach. In other words, it’s an antiflatulent agent (gas reducer) that’s used for the alleviation and prevention of excessive intestinal gas. It’s commonly combined with lentils and other legumes just for this reason to reduce gas post-meal and keep flatulence in check.