Asafoetida
--Synonyms---Food of the Gods. Devil's Dung.
---Part Used---An oleogum-resin obtained by
incision of root.
---Habitat---Afghanistan and Eastern Persia.
Family: Umbelliferae
Distribution: The perennial asafoetida plants has
several varieties and are native to the region
between the Mediterranean region to Central Asia,
especially Iran and Afghanistan. The other species,
known botanically as Ferula northex, grow
abundantly in Kashmir, Western Tibet and
Afghanistan.
Active constituent
In general, Asafoetida consists around 68% of
carbohydrates, 16% of moisture, 4% protein, 1% of
fat, 7% of minerals and 4% of fiber. It consists of
three main fractions, including resin (40–64%), gum
(25%) and essential oil (10–17%). ... Sulfur
compounds in F.
Side effects
There is some evidence that asafoetida is POSSIBLY
SAFE when taken by mouth as medicine. It might
cause swelling of the lips, burping, intestinal gas,
diarrhea, headache, convulsions, blood disorders, and
other side effects.
Chemical Tests
Asafetida forms an emulsion with water; with alcohol it is partially
soluble. 2. When triturated with water, it forms yellowish orange
emulsion. ... 0.2 g of powdered asafetida is
Cultivation and manufacture. The resin-like gum comes from the dried
sap extracted from the stem and roots, and is used as a spice. The resin is
greyish-white when fresh, but dries to a dark amber colour. The
asafoetida resin is difficult to grate and is traditionally crushed between
stones or with a hammer
How does asafoetida made?
Asafoetida is extracted from the Ferula plants which have massive
taproots or carrot-shaped roots, 12.5-15 cm in diameter at the crown
when they are 4-5 years old. Just before the plants flower, in March-
April, the upper part of the living rhizome root is laid bare and the
stem cut off close to the crown.
Where is asafoetida grown?
Asafoetida is endemic to Iran and Afghanistan, the main global
suppliers. It thrives in dry and cold desert conditions. While it is
very popular in India, some European countries too use it for its
medicinal properties.
Prepared by
Abdallah Ahmed rabie Sultan
Uses 1210362
Asafoetida. It is used widely all over the world as a flavoring spice
Under Supervision of
in a variety of foods. Traditionally it is used for the treatment of
various diseases, such as asthma, epilepsy, stomach-ache, flatulence, Dr. Adel Abd-Elkader
intestinal parasites, weak digestion and influenza.
2020-2021