ASAFOETIDA
Ferula Asafoetida

History and Folklore
Keep this herb under cover and in an airtight, glass container - the pungent aroma of this exotic spice of Indian cuisine is reminiscent of the sulphurous vapours that rise from volcanic slopes. It is not hard to see how it earned its common name: 'devil's dung'. Nevertheless, Indian and Asian cuisines regard it as a delicacy, and if used sparingly it certainly adds a certain 'je ne sais quoi' note to a dish.

Asafoetida is an oleoresin derived from an impressive member of the carrot family that can grow up to 12 ft high. It is related to the giant fennel of Greek mythology, that was said to have concealed the fire of heaven Prometheus managed to steal from the Gods, an association that is reflected in the Latin name 'ferula' - meaning 'a carrier'. The oleoresin is gathered by incising the root stem. The exuding resin is at first whitish/translucent, but turns reddish brown as it oxidizes. Three forms are available to trade - the extremely pungent, reddish brown, hardened oleoresin, which must be pounded in a pestle and mortar, a paste and a powder. The paste and powder are mixed with various substances, such as rice flour and can be added directly to a dish (use in small quantities). The resin is the most potent and must be quickly stir fried in oil to better disperse its flavour. Use in miniscule quantities: a pea-sized morsel is enough to flavour a large pot of food. Although Ferula Asa foetida, is the most common source of the spice, other, closely related Ferula species may also be used.

Asafoetida is said to have come to Europe with the returning troops of Alexander the Great. It was a common spice in Roman times, but its popularity diminished sometime during the late Middle Ages. In India and Asia, however, it continued to be much in demand to the present day. Pious Hindu and Jain monks, who refrain from onions and garlic, use asafoetida as a substitute. It is often used to flavour dhal, lentils and beans, as well as other vegetable dishes on account of its anti-flatulence properties.

Medicinal Uses:
Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine value Asafoetida as a stimulating digestive aid that helps to ease nervous indigestion and other digestive troubles that have their root cause in nervous tension (e.g. diarrhoea or constipation) and also recommends it for candida and digestive problems associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Asafoetida is also used for respiratory conditions, since the essential oil contained in the spice is excreted through the lungs. It is recommended to use this herb intermittently rather than continuously, since it is very strong.

Magical Uses:
Magically, both Asafoetida, as well as the closely related Galbanum are used as banishing herbs. It can exorcise those panic inducing free floating phantoms of fear. The pungent smell is said to dispel demons and is sometimes burnt as incense for protection, or worn as an amulet to avert the evil eye. It also helps focussing and concentrating the mind, helping those who are overly sensitive and ungrounded to find their inner balance.

BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.

Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.

USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.

CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.

If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.

Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.