Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ferula assafoetida, commonly known as asafoetida, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Ayurveda and Unani medicine. In these traditions, asafoetida has been employed for a variety of ailments, primarily digestive issues, but it has also been occasionally used topically or internally to address skin conditions such as itching and rashes. Traditional healers have applied asafoetida paste or oil to the skin, believing its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties could soothe pruritus (itching) caused by minor infections or irritations.

However, the scientific evidence supporting this use is limited. While some modern studies have highlighted the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of asafoetida extracts, these are mostly in vitro or animal studies and rarely focus directly on pruritus. There is a lack of robust human clinical trials assessing the efficacy of asafoetida specifically for itching. Therefore, the support for using Ferula assafoetida to treat or reduce itching stems primarily from traditional practices rather than validated scientific research. As such, while historically acknowledged in certain cultures, its use for this indication should be approached with caution until more rigorous scientific data are available.

More about ferula assafoetida
More about Itching

Other ingredients used for Itching

Other health conditions supported by ferula assafoetida

Products containing ferula assafoetida

Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System