Hing

In case you have been wondering what gives Indian food its attractive aroma, one of the key ingredients responsible is Hing (or 'Hingu') aka asafoetida. It is known to affect the nose quickly!

- Smt. Minati Shah

Although in reality, Hing acts more as a medicine than a taste enhancer. It mitigates Vata and Kapha but aggravates Pitta as it is hot in potency. According to Charak, it mitigates breathlessness, whooping cough, asthma and has a favorable effect on blood vessels, uterus and liver. According to Nigantoo, it mitigates worms but most importantly, it positively impacts the nerve centres and as a result, helps counter delirium, hysteria, epilepsy and negativity.