Asafoetida: A Time-Tested Remedy For Digestion, Asthma, Ulcers & More | Lifestyle News

Last Updated:June 23, 2025, 13:18 IST

Asafoetida is believed to help manage conditions such as whooping cough, asthma, epilepsy, intestinal cramps, bronchitis, ulcers, and even influenza

Asafoetida, a staple in Indian kitchens for centuries, is more than just a spice that enhances food flavour; it is also packed with significant health benefits. From aiding digestion to relieving pain and boosting immunity, this traditional ingredient has been used as a natural remedy for various health issues.

Even a small amount of asafoetida can have a substantial impact on the body. It contains natural medicinal compounds that aid digestion and are considered effective in treating issues like indigestion, gas, stomach pain, and bloating.

Beauty and wellness experts continue to recommend it for its medicinal properties, proving that sometimes the best cures are found in the kitchen.

According to a report by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), asafoetida has long been used in traditional medicine for treating various diseases. It is believed to help manage conditions such as whooping cough, asthma, epilepsy, intestinal cramps, bronchitis, ulcers, and even influenza. The scientific name of asafoetida is ‘Ferula Asafoetida’.

While the plant is found in certain parts of southern India, most of the asafoetida used in the country is imported from Afghanistan, Iran, and Uzbekistan. Ancient Ayurvedic texts, such as the Charaka Samhita, describe it as beneficial for increasing digestive power and reducing gas and indigestion. For people who lack appetite or struggle to digest food properly, asafoetida can be a blessing.

Its benefits extend beyond digestion. Asafoetida is also known to help relieve toothache. A simple home remedy suggests that mixing a bit of camphor with asafoetida and applying it to the affected tooth can ease the pain. Similarly, for earaches, heating asafoetida in sesame oil and placing a few drops into the ear may provide relief.

Adding just a pinch of asafoetida to daily dishes like dal, curry, or vegetables not only enhances flavour but also supports easier digestion. Studies have shown that asafoetida may help increase insulin production, making it beneficial for those trying to manage blood sugar levels.

The spice contains a special compound called coumarin, which helps thin the blood and prevent clotting. This can assist in managing blood pressure and maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also believed to help combat cancer-promoting cells.

For women after childbirth, asafoetida is thought to help cleanse the uterus and improve digestion. In cases of headache or migraine, mixing a pinch of asafoetida in half a cup of warm water and drinking it can provide relief.

However, it is important to note that small children and individuals with allergies should consult a doctor before consuming asafoetida in any form.

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