Ferula foetida or hing has been a part of Indian cuisine since time immemorial. It is used in a variety of curries and achaars to enhance the taste and nutritive value of food stuff. Apart from its culinary benefits, Ferula finds its use in a number of traditional systems of medicine the world over. Even modern medicine recognises its great herbal value in reducing flatulence.
The resin or gum obtained from Ferula foetida is used by herbalists for stomach ailments including spasms. More importantly, the herb is recognised for its unique property of keeping attacks of hysteria at bay and curing impotency in men and barrenness in women. Hing is also prescribed for respiratory health issues including asthma, whooping cough, nasal discharge and a cold.
Hing is obtained from Ferula foetida as well as Ferula asafoetida. It has a unique smell (alliaceous or garlic like odour) which does not go down well with many people, and it is thus also called the “Devil’s dung”. Ferula is a wonder herb full of health benefits. It expels mucous from the respiratory track (expectorant), clears the bowels in case of constipation (laxative), provides relief from intestinal flatulence (through an enema), stimulates the nerves and acts as a sedative for patients suffering from hysteria.
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professional before trying
herbal formations at home.