What Is Asafetida Tincture?

Asafetida is a plant native to Afghanistan and Iran. Its odor is stronger than onion and it is used in cooking as well as medicine. A tincture is made by combining plant resin with alcohol or oil.

History

• Believed to prevent disease, asafetida gum was used during the middle ages, according to Earth Notes. In ancient Persia, small amounts were used to add flavor in cooking.

Common Names

• Asafetida is also known as devil's dung, giant fennel and food of the gods, according to Earth Notes.

Uses

• According to Alternative Medicine Questions and Answers, asafetida tincture is used to treat conditions such as digestive problems, headache, and respiratory problems including bronchitis, asthma and whooping cough. The tincture is administered by mouth in a glass of water.

Dosage

• According to Earth Notes, the dosage for taking asafetida tincture orally is 1/2 to 1 fluid dram. This equals 1/4 to 3/4 tsp.

Considerations

• Asafetida, like all herbal medicines, should not be used without consulting your physician. Adverse reactions may occur with other medications you are taking.

Warnings

• According to Earth Notes, asafetida should not be used to treat acute digestive inflammation, peptic ulcers or infant colic. In addition, it should not be taken during pregnancy.