Review · Volume 11, Issue 1 · pp. 36–39
Asafoetida, God’s Food, a Natural Medicine
Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian1, Wenli Sun1, Ali Soleymani2, Mehdi Khoshkaram2, Qi Cheng1,3
- 1Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, CHINA..
- 2Faculty of Agriculture, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, IRAN..
- 3College of Life Sciences, Hebei Agricultural University, Global Alliance of HeBAU-CLS&HeQiS for BioAl-Manufacturing, Baoding, Hebei, CHINA..
Abstract
Introduction: Asafoetida is dried latex which is extracted from the taproot of many species of Ferula, a perennial herb native to the East Mediterranean and Central Asian regions. It is also a common ingredient in some cuisines.Methods: A literature search was conducted in Science Direct, Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, Springer and Medline.Results:The most important health benefits consist of reducing bloating, helping to relieve asthma, lower blood pressure and menstrual pain, as well as treating headaches, insect bites, indigestion and as a laxative. It is good for diabetic people, treats nerve disorders, helps fight free radicals, aids in reducing acne, treats corns and calluses and reduces hair loss.Conclusion:This review article allowed verifying asafoetida as sources of compounds with valuable nutritional and bioactive properties with great ability for incorporation into foods with functional properties.
Keywords: Medicinal plant; Health benefits; Asthma; Anti-cancer; Headaches
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