HINGU-Ferula asafoetida is herbaceous plant of the umbelliferae family. It is oleo gum resin obtained from the rhizome and root of plant.
This spice is used as a digestive aid and in the treatment of hysteria, some nervous conditions, bronchitis, asthma and whooping cough. It was at one time employed in the treatment of infantile pneumonia and flatulent colic. The gum resin is antispasmodic, carminative, expectorant, laxative, and sedative. The volatile oil in the gum is eliminated through the lungs, making this an excellent treatment for asthma. Its properties are antispasmodic, expectorant, stimulant, emmenagogue and vermifuge. Asafoetida has also been used as a sedative. It also thins the blood and lowers blood pressure.
Benefits of Hing for Managing Neural Conditions:
- F. asafoetida’s neuroprotective role is demonstrated by its ability to act as a nerve stimulant in the management of neuropathic pain by encouraging axonal regeneration and remyelination while reducing lymphocyte infiltration.
- The ability of F. asafoetida to improve memory is due to its antioxidant effects and suppression of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.
- The anti-seizure activity of F. asafoetida gum extracts was examined in experimental animals.
- This activity is due to its antioxidant properties and the ability to decrease oxidative stress.
Managing Diabetes:
- Asafoetida extract demonstrated blood sugar-lowering activity and thus can be used to lower blood sugar levels in diabetes patients due to the presence of phenolic acid and tannins in the extract.
Anti-obesity and Fat Lowering Agent:
- The effects of F. asafoetida on weight gain and fat buildup in diabetic patients were researched, and it was discovered that it reduced body weight, abnormal fat, and adipocyte cell size.
- As a result, it will be regarded a viable therapy option for diabetes-induced obesity.
Relaxant Activity:
- The effects of different preparations of F. asafoetida and its ingredients on different types of smooth muscles were investigated
- Because of the presence of umbelliprenin, asafoetida extract may have a muscle relaxant effect on tracheal smooth muscles.
