Hing (Asafoetida) is an Indian spice and Ayurvedic remedy that can be used to treat flu, cold, asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, toothache, indigestion, flatulence and abdominal pain.
Asafoetida is a dried, resinous gum collected from the root of Ferula. It is native to India. Asafoetida has a unique and pungent flavour. It is ground to a fine powder and used as an Indian spice. Hing is popular in Indian vegetarian cooking.
Treat asthma, chronic bronchitis, cold and whooping cough
Scientists found that asafoetida produces natural antiviral compounds that kill the swine flu virus, H1N1. Asafoetida was used in 1918 to fight the Spanish influenza pandemic. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurveda to treat chronic dry cough.
Here is how to treat asthma, chronic bronchitis, cold and whooping cough:
– Hing 1/4-1/2 teaspoon
– Honey 1-2 teaspoon
– Water 1/2 cup
– Mix them well, and drink it, twice a day
– This remedy can help treat respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis and cough
Treat pains and toothache
According to Ayurveda, hing has effects to relieve aches and pains, including stomach ache, abdominal pain, and toothache. Hing is a pungent spice widely used in Indian cooking. It is sold in Indian grocery stores. You can easily find it.
Here is how to use hing for toothache:
1. Apply a pinch of asafoetida (hing) powder to the aching tooth, it will reduce pain.
2. Mix a pinch of asafoetida (hing) powder with a tablespoon of lemon juice, then use a cotton ball to soak the mixture, and place it onto the affected tooth. It will relieve pain.
Treat indigestion, flatulence and abdominal pain
Asafoetida has antiflatulent properties. It is known to relieve intestinal and stomach upsets. It can be used as a digestive aid to help digestion and reduce flatulence. Asafetida is much used in Ayurvedic remedies.
To treat abdominal pain due to indigestion and flatulence (gas):
1. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) powder and a pinch of salt into buttermilk (or water), and drink it.
2. Mix some of asafoetida (hing) powder with little water to make a paste. Lie down and place the paste on the belly button (umbilicus). Leave for 15-20 minutes.
Asafoetida helps release gas and relieve abdominal pain.
Hing as a spice can be found in an Indian grocery store.
Though generally speaking, asafoetida is a safe spice and remedy, but pregnant women should avoid the use of asafoetida. Asafoetida has been reported to have contraceptive / abortifacient activity. It might have possible side effects that disturb the pregnancy and induce miscarriage.
Please note, hing should be used with care if you have pregnancy, severe acidity, haemorrhagic disorders, piles, or hypertension.
For more information about Ayurvedic remedies, go to Natural Remedies Center: http://www.naturalremediescenter.com/treat/ayurvedic-medicine/
