Asafoetida
Asafoetida
Asafoetida (pronounced /æsəˈfɛtɪdə/), also known as hing, is a dried latex (gum oleoresin) exuded from the rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, a perennial herb that grows 1 to 1.5 m tall.
Etymology
The English name "asafoetida" is derived from the Persian aza (resin) and Latin foetida (foul-smelling). The name "hing" is from Hindi हींग.
Description
Asafoetida is a plant native to the deserts of Iran and mountains of Afghanistan and is mainly cultivated in nearby India. The plant has a complex botanical life and is a rich source of various bioactive compounds. The resin-like gum comes from the dried sap extracted from the stem and roots and is used as a spice. The species is native to the deserts of Iran and mountains of Afghanistan and is mainly cultivated in nearby India.
Uses
In Ayurveda, asafoetida is considered one of the best spices for balancing the vata dosha. It is used as a digestive aid, in food as a condiment, and in pickles. Its pungent smell has resulted in its widespread use in Indian and Persian cuisine, where it is used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes.
Related Terms
- Ferula: A genus of about 170 species of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region east to central Asia, mostly growing in arid climates.
- Ayurveda: A system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent.
- Vata dosha: One of the three doshas in Ayurveda, vata is a combination of space and air. It controls all movement in the body, including breathing, digestion, and nerve impulses from the brain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Asafoetida
- Wikipedia's article - Asafoetida
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