Q.52. The oleo-gum resin asafoetida (hing) is obtained from the cut surface of
(A) Stem
(B) Root
(C) Leaf
(D) Fruit
Asafoetida, commonly known as hing, is a pungent oleo-gum resin widely used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. The correct answer to the question on its source is the root, making option (B) the right choice.
Correct Answer
The oleo-gum resin asafoetida (hing) is obtained from incisions made on the root (specifically the tap root or rhizome) of the plant Ferula asafoetida from the Apiaceae family. A milky latex exudes from these cuts, dries into a yellowish-brown resin, and is collected for use. This process occurs mainly in regions like Iran and Afghanistan.
Option Analysis
(A) Stem
Stems of Ferula species do not yield asafoetida; the resin is not obtained from stem incisions, distinguishing it from other latex-yielding plants like rubber trees.
(B) Root
This is correct, as the resin comes from the living roots or rhizomes of Ferula asafoetida or related species like F. foetida. Incisions expose the latex, which solidifies into the commercial product containing resin (40-65%), gum (25%), and volatile oils.
(C) Leaf
Leaves produce no such resin; asafoetida extraction targets underground parts, not foliage.
(D) Fruit
Fruits or seeds of the plant are not the source; while the plant produces umbels of flowers leading to seeds, the oleo-gum resin is root-derived.
Botanical Facts
Ferula asafoetida is a perennial herb growing up to 2 meters tall. The collected resin owes its strong garlic-like odor to compounds like isobutyl propenyl disulfide in its 10-17% volatile oil content. It serves as a digestive aid and flavor enhancer in spice blends.
