Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) has been used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Unani medicine, for the treatment of respiratory ailments, including lung congestion, asthma, and bronchitis. Its use is based on its reputed expectorant, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Historically, practitioners have prepared decoctions or infused the gum resin in various remedies to help clear mucus and ease breathing. The characteristic strong smell of asafoetida is partly due to volatile sulfur compounds, which are believed in traditional medicine to help loosen phlegm and open up airways.

However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. There are a few in vitro and animal studies that show asafoetida may have some bronchodilatory and antimicrobial effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The majority of the support for its use in treating lung congestion comes from traditional practices and anecdotal reports rather than systematic research. Therefore, while there is a strong tradition of using asafoetida for respiratory congestion, scientific validation is minimal at this time.