Asafoetida: Why This Stinky Herb Is so Beneficial

It may smell like rotting garlic and sweaty feet, but this little-known Indian spice possesses antiviral, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antitumor and many more properties.

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• The Indian cooking spice asafoetida is a gum obtained from a type of giant fennel. It has an offensive smell akin to that of rotting garlic and sweaty feet, but an appetizing savory, umami taste

• With its onion-garlic flavor, you can use it as a substitute for either of those ingredients. Many recommend using it in bean-based dishes, as i…