AsaFoetida Essential Oil (Hing Oil)

Asafoetida (/æsəˈfɛtɪdə/; also spelled asafetida) is the dried latex (gum oleoresin) exuded from the rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, perennial herbs growing 1 to 1.5 m (3 to 5 ft) tall. They are part of the celery family, Umbelliferae. Asafoetida is thought to be in the same genus as silphium, a North African plant now believed to be extinct, and was used as a cheaper substitute for that historically important herb from classical antiquity. The species are native to the deserts of Iran and mountains of Afghanistan where substantial amounts are grown.

Asafoetida has a pungent smell, as reflected in its name, lending it the trivial name of "stinking gum". The odor dissipates upon cooking; in cooked dishes, it delivers a smooth flavour reminiscent of leeks or other onion relatives. Asafoetida is also known colloquially as "devil's dung" in English (and similar expressions in many other languages).

This pungent material is the dried oleoresin of the taproot of the herb known as Ferula. Popular names for this substance include Devil's Dung, Hing, Ting or stinking gum, due to its unpleasant aroma. This perennial herb grows to six feet in height, with bright yellow flowers. The often unpleasant aroma of the oleoresin is offset by its value as a cooking spice. Asafoetida has a strong distinctive flavor described as reminiscent of onions or leeks. The spice is highly valued in Asia for the flavor it imparts and for its anti-flatulent and anti-microbial properties.