Transcript of Cast Iron: An Invention of Ancient China. Mass-production began in the Han dynasty. At the time of its invention, cast iron had many uses. Since the discovery of steel, iron (both cast and wrought) has become less common, as steel is generally stronger.
Asafoetida is a plant. It has a bad smell and tastes bitter. That probably explains why it is sometimes called âdevilâs dung.â. People use asafoetida resin, a gum-like material, as medicine. Asafoetida resin is produced by solidifying juice that comes out of cuts made in the plantâs living roots. Asafoetida is used for breathing problems including ongoing (chronic) bronchitis, H1N1 swine flu, and asthma.
These 10 animal facts will amaze you. Asafoetida is a plant from the Apiaceae family, which includes carrots, parsley, dill, celery, caraway, fennel, and lovage. Most similar in appearance to fennel, this herb has a smell that's often compared to rotting feet, which causes many cooks to feel nervous about using it.