हींग लगे न फिटकरी रंग चोखा (To add shine to an endeavour/object, without much effort) It's a well-known, popular Hindi proverb used in daily conversations as well as literature, and in a somewhat backhanded manner, underscores the widespread use of Hing to add shine or the finishing touch to any endeavour/work. From the culinary world to the general, the Kahawat that reflects the innate bonding of Hing with the Indian people. Generally, people are not aware of its source - from where Hing or Asafoetida is sourced or derived, and its history. While some mistakenly believe that it comes from rocks, or is found in parts of Rajasthan; none of these perceptions are, however, true. Asafoetida is extracted as an oleoresin from the roots of the Ferula plant (botanical name) that grows in arid parts of Afghanistan, Iran and Uzbekistan in a soil which is highly rich in phosphorus and other minerals. India imports Hing from these countries.