Heeng or Asafoetida - its miraculous benefits on health

By:Rohtki Arora, Updated: Jan 4, 2022 | 17:02 IST

Heeng (Asafoetida)

In the treasure trove of Indian spices, heeng has been considered a magical ingredient. Most of the traditional ways of cooking have given it an unwavering place in the process of adding aroma and flavor to any dish. However, its pungent smell may turn off many people. Yet, with its numerous health benefits, its use is not compromised in most Indian households.



For all those with a cranky stomach, it helps to improve digestion. Its therapeutic and medicinal properties have made it an essential part of our cuisines.

Health benefits of Heeng:

Heeng could be a less-liked ingredient for those who have not tried. But, let's admit, leading a healthy lifestyle involves some changes that we may like or soon begin to like. And, now you know, adding heeng could be one of them for the benefits below:

• Good for digestion
• Maintains blood pressure
• Promotes cardiac health
• Controls blood sugar levels
• Provides relief from stress
• Keeps cholesterol levels in check
• Improves metabolism

Nutritional Composition:
Per 100 grams of heeng will have the following nutritional composition:
NUTRIENTS

MEASURE (%DV)*

Calorie

297

Carbohydrates

30 %

Dietary fibre

0 %

Protein

10 %

Calcium 3%

NA

Sodium 2%

0 %

Magnesium 6%

NA

Vitamin C 4%

NA

Vitamin A 283 %

NA

Vitamin K 2%

NA

Pantothenic acid 16%

NA


• One must use heeng in a balanced manner. Usually, 5mg per day is recommended for consumption.

• Generally, doctors advise avoiding heeng during pregnancy and bleeding disorders. It is better to consult for its usage when under medication.


Key health benefits of Heeng:

1. Improves Indigestion: It comes loaded with dietary fiber and helps in regulating bowel movements. Be it carbs, proteins and fats, it ensures better digestion and improved liver functions. Owing to its anti-bacterial, anti-flatulent and other medicinal properties, it proves an aid for those suffering from bloating and abdominal distension.

2. Eases Headache: Its consumption puts throbbing blood vessels in the head to rest. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties provide relief from stress and headaches.

3. Regulates high blood pressure: Being a good source of potassium heeng balances the effects of sodium well. It results in regulating high blood pressure issues.

4. Lowers Cholesterol levels: Heeng is an everyday ingredient, which can promote overall cardiac health. It takes good care of the body's metabolism and aids in reducing cholesterol levels. Also, it is an effective agent against inflammation of the blood vessels.

5. Keeps diabetes under control: For diabetic patients, balanced consumption of heeng controls insulin secretion from the pancreatic cells and aids in lowering blood sugar levels.

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