This is 100% Hing, without any flour mixed unlike the ones available in the market. Hing (Asafoetida) is a spice which is extracted from Ferula Assa-Foetida; it is also popular by several other rather interesting names as well like devil’s dung, stinking gum, food of the gods & jowani badian in different parts of the country. Buddhist vegetarians steer clear of eating hing, as it is one of the 5 spices avoided by them.   Its a pungent spice that ads an unmissable flavour to any dish it is added to. Dals, Kadhis and simpler vegetarian dishes are some of the dishes hing or hing water is added to.   It is a resin like gum which is extracted from dried sap of the stem and roots of Ferula plant and then crushed in a traditional method, between heavy stones or by a hammer, this requires a lot of manpower. A species of the herb is found in the desserts of Iran and the mountains of Afghanistan, but it is also cultivated in India, mainly in the regions of Kashmir.   In Ancient India, rishi munis and vaids were also healers as they knew about the medicinal properties of all herbs and spices. They preferred ayurvedic medicines and remedies to cure many everyday health issues. Hing also has many medicinal properties and you may have heard your grandmothers suggest that Hing tadka is a must to your dals at night as it helps aid digestion.  

Benefits of using Hing 

  1. Aid to stomach problems It is most commonly used as a digestive aid apart from cooking, it is considered as one of the best remedies to balance vata dosha. It is also used as a remedy for flatulence, constipation and digestion. It can be taken with butter milk to help cleanse the digestive system.   2.Antimicrobial It is known to be one of the best home remedies for asthma and bronchitis. In many parts of the world like Afganistan, China, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia it is taken to relieve symptoms of whooping cough, asthma and ulcer.   3.Anti-coagulant It has the properties to control cholesterol and blood pressure level and fat consumption too. The gum contains a relaxant compound which improves the blood flow and reduces arterial blood pressure, thus having a positive effect on blood pressure and cardiovascular health. It also has phenolic acid, ferulic acid and tannins which regulate the blood sugar level. Other benefits of Hing include remedy for intestinal gas, bloating and cramps during menstrual cycle and mucous discharge.