Asafoetida or hing holds a unique place in Indian cuisine. Indian recipes, be it dal, sabzi, sambar or even rice items are incomplete without that touch of hing.
Have you ever wondered how hing or asafoetida is sourced? It is an aromatic gum extorted from the taproot of several species belonging to the Ferula herb.
Hing is widely used for its unique flavour and aroma and it holds an incredible place in the traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its carminative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
Also Read: Hing: Medicinal Uses, Therapeutic Benefits For Hair, Diabetes And Supplements
Top Health Benefits Of Asafoetida:
Promotes Digestive Health
Asafoetida is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating stomach problems including bloating, flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome, and worms. The strong anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties of Asafoetida help in easing these health problems.
The best way to include Asafoetida in your daily regimen is by adding it to dals, sambhar and curries. Add a pinch of hing to warm water and drink it daily to reap similar health benefits.
Treats Respiratory Problems
The impressive natural powers of Asafoetida such as anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antibiotics effects are beneficial in alleviating respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and dry cough. It helps in clearing the phlegm and in easing chest congestion. Applying the Asafoetida paste on your chest is beneficial in getting relief from respiratory problems.
Regulates Blood Pressure
Asafoetida is the best natural blood thinner, the abundance of coumarin content helps in improving the blood flow and lowering its viscosity, thus preventing blood clotting and lowering blood pressure. Evidence proves that phytonutrients in asafoetida function to lower arterial blood pressure and ensures good cardiac health.
Controls Blood Sugar Levels
As per a recent study, 50 mg of asafoetida extract has proven blood sugar-lowering effects. It functions as a natural remedy in maintaining normal blood sugar levels. The potent phenolic compound in hing works well to regulate blood glucose levels.
Skin Health
Asafoetida is an amazing ingredient to promote skin health and glow. The powerful anti-inflammatory properties work well to lessen acne production and its anti-bacterial properties hinder the growth of pimples and rashes. It improves the blood flow to the facial tissue enhancing the skin radiance and glow.
Mix Asafoetida with besan flour and rose water to form a paste, apply this mixture to your face to get that instant glow.
Boosts Fertility And Reproductive Health
Imbued with powerful aphrodisiac qualities, asafoetida stimulates hormonal activity and increases energy and blood flow in the body thereby acting as a sexual stimulant. Balanced consumption of this incredible spice stimulates the production of the hormone progesterone in females, reduces the risks of premature births and excessive bleeding during labour. It plays a key role to eradicate symptoms of sterility and infertility in both men and women.
Subdues Headache
This magical yellow powder is blessed with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which helps in relaxing the throbbing blood vessels in the head. Being an antidepressant, it also improves the mood of an individual and provides relief from stress-related headaches and chronic migraines.
Remedies Insect Bites And Stings
Insect bites and stings can be extremely painful and may affect your daily activities. Asafoetida acts as a natural antidote for all sorts of insect bites. The anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties of the powder play a quintessential role in reducing the inflamed condition of the skin after an insect bite. Just smear the affected area with a paste of asafoetida and garlic to reduce pain and heal insect bites.
