Hingupatri (Hingupatri (Kabari, Prithvika, Prithaka, Prithu))
Hingupatri, known botanically as Ferula jaeschkeana, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for digestive and respiratory support. It is characterized by its pungent taste and hot potency.
Botanical name: Ferula jaeschkeana. Also known as: Hingupatri, Hinguparni, Hingupatrika, Baspika, Desaj hing, Hing, Hingro, Hingupatri, Doddahingina balli, Hing, Heeng, Devil's dung, Food of the God, Asant, Stinking gum, Ting, Kayam, Inguva, Perungayam.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antimicrobial effects, Spasmolytic action, Digestive enzyme stimulation
Dosage
Resin powder: 100–200 mg per dose with warm water after meals. Some suggest starting at 50 mg. Liquid extract: 1–2 ml tincture (1:5 w/v in 60% ethanol), twice daily for respiratory complaints. Capsules: Standardized to 3–5% ferulic acid, 150 mg once or twice daily. General dosage: 3-6 grams. For Ferula asafoetida (Hing): Asafoetida powder: 125 – 500 mg per day, or as directed by an Ayurvedic doctor.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Pungent, Bitter, Astringent
- Virya: ["Hot"]
- Vipaka: ["Pungent"]
Benefits
- Appetizing
- Digestive
- Stimulating
Traditional uses
- Eye diseases
- Phlegm
- Vata disorders
- Digestive issues
Dosha effects
- vata: decreasing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Resin Powder: The resin is collected, dried, and powdered.
- Liquid Extract (Tincture): Resin is extracted using a solvent like ethanol.
- Capsules: Standardized extracts are encapsulated.
- Topical Paste: Resin can be mixed with sesame oil and applied to the abdomen for cramps or the chest for cough relief.
- Traditional Kashmiri home remedy: A pinch of powdered Hingupatri in warm water is given for colic.
- Salve: In Ladakh, monks prepare a Hingupatri-based salve for muscle aches and bronchial congestion.
Contraindications
- Ulcerative colitis: May aggravate the condition due to its pungent nature.
- Gastritis: Avoid high-dose tinctures.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: High doses should be avoided because the high sulfur content may cause irritation. It may also possess abortifacient properties.
- Peptic ulcers: Elderly individuals with peptic ulcers should use it cautiously due to its acid-stimulating effects.
- Blood thinners: Caution is advised for those on blood thinners due to potential anticoagulant effects.
Side effects
- Vulnerable populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid high doses due to the high sulfur content, which may cause irritation.
- Elderly individuals with peptic ulcers should use it cautiously because of its pungent, acid-stimulating effects.
- Overdosage of Asafoetida (Hing) may cause an increase in Pitta, leading to a burning sensation and worsening of gastritis.
- It should be avoided during menstruation and in bleeding disorders.
- As it has blood-thinning properties, it may delay clotting.
Interactions
- Exercise caution when taking with blood-thinning medications due to its anti-coagulant properties.
- People taking medicine for high blood pressure should use Asafoetida (Hing) with care, as it may reduce blood pressure.
- Simultaneous use of herbs and psychiatric medications may magnify or counteract the effects of medications.
Clinical evidence
Clinical data is limited; A randomized, double-blind trial shows improvement in functional dyspepsia. Additional pilot studies report digestive and respiratory benefits.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Appetizing
- Digestive
- Stimulating
Classical clinical indications
- Eye diseases
- Phlegm
- Vata disorders
- Digestive issues