Asafoetida or hing makes for an indispensable part of the Indian cuisine, especially in curries and dals. Its distinct flavour and aroma can transform any boring dish. Due to its anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative and diuretic properties, it has a prominent place in traditional medicine. Asafoetida is also referred to as the ‘Food of the Gods’. Here are some reasons to include asafoetida or hing in your daily diet.
TREAT FOR THE STOMACH
Asafoetida or hing is an age-old medicine for stomach problems including gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal worms and flatulence. For small children and newborns, it is a common practice to dissolve some hing in water and apply around their navel area, when they have stomach problems.
BREATHE FREE
Hing also helps in relieving respiratory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis and dry cough. It also helps in relieving chest congestion and releasing phlegm. Prepare a paste using asafoetida and water and apply on your chest. You can also mix asafoetida and dry ginger powder along with some honey. Consume this mixture to get relief from respiratory issues.
IMPROVE BLOOD FLOW
Asafoetida is known to be a natural blood thinner and may help in lowering blood pressure levels. It is power-packed with coumarin, a compound that aids in improving blood flow, thereby preventing the formation of clots.
RELIEVES MENSTRUAL PAIN
Asafoetida alleviates menstrual pain and cramps in the lower abdomen and back. Being a natural blood thinner, it helps blood flow smoothly without hampering any part of your body. It also boosts progesterone secretion that promotes easy blood flow, thus providing relief from pain. Mix a pinch of asafoetida, fenugreek powder and a pinch of salt in a cup of buttermilk and consume it during periods.
REDUCES HEADACHES
Asafoetida has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, which in turn reduces headaches.
HEALS INSECT BITES AND STINGS
Asafoetida acts as a natural antidote for insect bites and stings. All you need to do is to mix garlic and hing paste and apply on the affected area.
GREAT FOR YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Acne – Its anti-inflammatory properties work together to reduce acne production. Whereas, its anti-bacterial properties inhibit the growth of pimples and rashes. All you need to do is to add multani mitti and rose water along with a dash of hing in a bowl. Mix the ingredients and apply it on the affected area.
Glowing complexion – Asafoetida helps increase the supply of oxygen to facial tissues that gives your skin a radiant glow. Mix asafoetida with water or rose water to form a paste; you can add some sandalwood powder too. Apply this on your face regularly to get effective results.
Shining mane – Asafoetida can do wonders for dry and frizzy hair; thanks to its moisturising properties. Make a hair mask using yogurt, almond oil and hing and apply on your hair. Leave it for an hour before washing it off with lukewarm water.
