Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) has a long history of use in traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda and Unani, as a remedy for respiratory ailments such as coughs—particularly spasmodic or persistent coughs. The gum resin is described in classic Ayurvedic texts as an expectorant and antispasmodic, believed to help relieve bronchial irritation and facilitate the expulsion of phlegm. Historical records from Greco-Arab and Persian medicine also mention asafoetida’s use in treating respiratory problems, including whooping cough and asthma-like symptoms.

However, modern scientific validation for these uses is limited. Only a small number of preliminary animal and in vitro studies suggest potential bronchodilatory, antispasmodic, or expectorant effects, but clinical trials in humans for cough relief are lacking. The majority of evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional practice rather than systematic research. Therefore, while there is significant traditional support for the use of asafoetida in the management of spasmodic cough, robust scientific evidence is presently insufficient.