Hing (Ferula asafoetida). A Review Based Upon its Ayurvedic and Pharmacological Properties

Abstract

Ferula is considered as the third largest genus of the family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) which consists of 180-185 species. Asafoetida is defined as the oleo-resin gum extracted from the stem and rhizome of the Ferula asafetida plant. It is commonly called Hing or Devil's dung. It is a native species of Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. In Ayurveda, it is described as an analgesic agent and is mentioned in Charak Samhita. It carries a strong, tenacious and sulfurous odor. It is also used as a spice or as a condiment in various cookeries as a flavor like in curries, fresh vegetables, meat, pickles and pulses. Asafetida is distinguished as asafetida hing (hing) and asafetida (hingra). Traditionally, the plant is used to treat diseases like whooping cough, asthma, bronchitis, epilepsy, ulcer, stomachache, flatulence, bronchitis, antispasmodic, intestinal parasites, influenza and weak digestion. The main active constituents present in the Ferula asafetida plant are resins, gums and essential oils. From the reported studies it was found that the plant possesses various therapeutic and pharmacological properties like antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antitumor, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antispasmodic, hypertensive, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and antiviral properties. In this review article, attempts have been made to describe the overall plant based on its modern and traditional view.