Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic and Unani systems, for supporting respiratory health, including the bronchial system. Historically, it has been used as an expectorant and antispasmodic, believed to help relieve symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and whooping cough by facilitating the expulsion of mucus and reducing bronchial muscle spasms. Ancient texts and traditional practitioners have consistently noted its pungent resin as beneficial for clearing respiratory passages and easing breathing difficulties.

However, scientific validation for these traditional uses is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that asafoetida has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and expectorant properties, which could theoretically benefit bronchial health, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The majority of support for its use in the bronchial system thus stems from traditional knowledge, with only preliminary or indirect scientific indications. Therefore, while its use is justified by a strong historical precedent, the evidence from modern clinical science remains insufficient to fully endorse its efficacy for bronchial support.