Dill water is generally given to crying babies as a medicine and is also used as a digestive aid
The earliest known mention of dill as a medicinal herb was in Egypt nearly 5,000 years ago when the plant was known as a soothing medicine.
Dill has been extensively used by ancient civilisations like Romans and Greeks. It is a culinary herb and has found a popular use in Germany, Greece, central Europe, Russia, Scandinavia and Romania. Many references to the herb can be located in the writings of English clergy, German literary works of 11th century and also in works of Roman naturalists.
The herb can be chewed after having food to cure bad breath problems.
Dill weed contains various plant derived chemical compounds that are known to have antioxidants. It is also said to have disease preventing and health promoting properties. Presence of antioxidants makes this herb a good protection against free radicals and carcinogens.
This herb doesn’t contain any cholesterol and is low in calories. However, due to antioxidants and vitamins like niacin, pyridoxine and dietary fibers, it helps to control blood cholesterol levels.
Having an essential oil, Eugenol, dill has a therapeutic usage as a local anaesthetic and antiseptic. Further, Eugenol has been found to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics and more research is being done to to establish this further.
Dill is a member of the parsley family with light green and feathery leaves. The plant is propagated from seed and thrives in various well drained soil. It usually grows in warm areas of the garden, often away from open areas.
During middle ages in Europe, the herb was often hung before the doors to cordon-off evil spirits or witches. As per mythology and folklore it is believed to provide protection against witchcraft. It is known to generate positive energies.
It is rich in vital vitamins including folic acid, vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin-C, that is an essential component for optimum metabolism of food inside the human body.
Dill water is generally given to crying babies as a soothing medicine and is also used as a digestive aid. Some tales also have the mention of this herb for curing hiccups.
The herb is a very good source of calcium and is important for reducing the bone loss that occurs after menopause. In some conditions, the plant also has healing properties for problems such as rheumatoid arthritis. One tablespoon of the dill herb contains more calcium than one cup of milk. Additionally, dill is also a good source of dietary fibre, minerals, manganese, iron and magnesium.
Dill is available as pickles, and the raw herb can be used as salad dressing or in fish dishes. It is available in market in summer but dry dill can be purchased throughout the year.
The herb is thought to make one drowsy and is often considered a good cure for sleep related problems like insomnia.
Dill seeds usually provide the strongest flavour. They can be used as whole or in grounded form. These seeds are good accompaniments to soups, fish and vegetables. Small quantities can be added to make unique herb breads and flavoured vinegar. Desserts, especially those involving apple can also be prepared using the herb.
The herb was often added to love potions and aphrodisiacs to make them more effective. Dill is believed to bring happiness in marriages and also shower good fortune.