Origin. - A gum-resin obtained from the root of Ferula foetida (Bunge) Regel, and probably other species of Ferula, large perennial herbs found in Turkestan, Western Thibet, and Western Afghanistan.

Description and Properties. - Irregular masses composed of whitish tears embedded in a yellowish- or brownish-gray, sticky mass. The tears when hard break with a conchoidal fracture, showing a milk-white color, which changes, on exposure, to pink, and finally to brown. The drug has a persistent alliaceous odor and a bitter, alliaceous, acrid taste. When triturated with water it yields a milk-white emulsion, which becomes yellow upon the addition of ammonia water. It is partly soluble in ether, and at least 60 per cent. of it should dissolve in alcohol.

Dose. - 5-8 grains (0.3-0.5 Gm.) [4 grains (2.5 Gm.), U. S. P.].

Official Preparations

Emulsum Asafoetidae - Emulisi Asafoetidae- Emulsion of Asafetida. - Dose, 2-4 fluidrams (7.39-15.0 Cc.) [4 fluidrams (16 Cc.) U. S. P.].

Pllulae Asafoetidae - Pllulas (acc.) Asafoetidae - Pills of Asafetida. - Dose, 2 to 5 pills.

Tinctura Asafoetidae - Tincturae Asafoetidae - Tincture of Asafetida (20 per cent.). - Dose, 10-40 minims (0.6-2.5 Cc.) [15 minims (1 Cc.) U. S. P.].