Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs - Scott Cunningham 1985

Asafoetida
The Herbs

(Ferula assa-foetida, Ferula foetida, Ferula rurbicaulis) P, do not feed to a child with colic.

Folk Names: Assyfetida, Devil’s Dung, Food of the Gods, Ungoozeh

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Powers: Exorcism, Purification, Protection

Magical Uses: Burn small amounts in exorcism and protection incenses. Also use in protection sachets, but only if you want to smell odd. Destroys manifestations of spirits if thrown onto a fire or into the censer during magical rites.

Sometimes used as an amulet to keep away colds and fevers, and for this purpose is usually worn around the neck.

Unfortunately, though asafoetida is undoubtedly powerful, it also has a particularly horrid odor. Just the slightest suggestion of the fragrance has caused vomiting. Use with care.