Asafoetida

Asafoetida, Ferula asafoetida (family Umbelliferae), is a resin gum which comes from the roots and stem of the wild fennel genus Ferula.

It derives its English and scientific name from the Persian word for resin and Latin foetida, which refers to its strong sulfurous odor.

Also known as hing, its Hindi name, this spice is used as a digestive aid and in pickles. It is mainly grown in India and Kashmir.