Asafoetida, also known as Hing in Indian cuisine, has a very strong and pungent odor because of the high amount of sulfur compounds in it, but the smell becomes palatable when cooked.
Hing is well-known as the secret weapon of Indian cuisine because of its unforgettable aroma. A pinch of Hing to your daily diet not only adds taste to your dish but also provide you with several health benefits. Since the ancient times, hing played a major role in ayurvedic medicine system for the treatment of several health problems like indigestion, gas, bronchitis, kidney stones, etc.
Here are the top benefits of Asafoetida for stomach and digestion:
1. Aids in Digestion
Hing is one of the most common remedies for indigestion since centuries. It is also supported with various studies and research. A study included 43 individuals who had severe to moderate indigestion problems who were given 250mg Asafoetida tablets twice a day. After 30 days, there was a significant improvement in digestion as well as bloating. Asafoetida helps in boosting digestion because of its effect of increasing the digestive enzymes. Moreover, it also increases the production of bile from the liver that helps in the digestion of fat.
2. Helps in IBS
IBS is a digestive problem that includes multiple digestive issues including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or sometimes both. With its beneficial effects on digestion, hing helps in relieving IBS-related symptoms as well. In two studies carried out with individuals having IBS symptoms, there was found out quite an improvement in the symptoms.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Hing naturally comes with anti-inflammatory properties and hence prevents stomach infections. When added to the daily meals, the incidence of food poisoning is almost zero. Doing so will help in treating multiple respiratory diseases like pneumonia, whooping cough, cold, bronchitis, and asthma.
4. Anti-microbial Properties
Hing is naturally packed with anti-microbial properties which helps in the prevention of bacterial and viral infections related to the stomach. A recent study carried out showed Asafoetida’s protective action against Streptococcus bacteria.
5. Preventing Acidity
Hing is naturally alkaline which prevents acid reflux and hence helps with people having stomach acidity problems. All you need to do is add half a teaspoon of Hing in warm water and drink it on empty stomach to keep acidity at bay. You can also add it to curries if you have a regular acidity problem.
6. Preventing Constipation
Asafoetida contains a high amount of fiber and has a laxative effect. Hence, adding it to daily diets helps in preventing constipation in adults. Not only for adults, but Hing can also be an effective remedy for relieving constipation in kids as well. Make a paste of Hing in water with a thick consistency and put it around the baby’s naval area to give your baby instant relief from constipation.
7. Regulating Bowel Movements
Hing acts as a digestive stimulant when ingested. This action helps in the regulation of bowel movements. Also, it increases the production of acid in the stomach and stimulates the liver to increase the production of bile salts. This not only improves the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins but also improves appetite.
Key Takeaway:
Hing has a very rich and healthy nutritious profile. Being a part of Ayurvedic medicine for years, it helps in relieving stomach problems like bloating, flatulence, constipation, etc. besides rendering several other health benefits on the human body.
