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Basic Information: Dill is an annual herb in the celery family Apiaceae. Dill grows up to 40-60 cm, with slender, hollow stems and alternate, finely divided softly delicate leaves, which are about 10-20 cm long and blue-green in color. The flowers are white to yellow, in small umbrels and the seeds are very small and either straight or slightly curved with a longitudinally ridged surface. Most of the time, dill is an annual plant, meaning it can survive only one growing season. The origin is unknown but it is believed to be native to the Mediterranean.
Nutrition, Traditional Use and Research
The statements below describe nutrition facts, traditional use and published research. They are not health claims for our products.
- Dill is traditionally used in cooking and in folk practice, for example as a tea to ease digestion after meals. Scientific evidence for such effects is limited.
- Dill contains essential oils with flavonoids and B vitamins. In traditional practice, dill tea is drunk in the evening in some regions for relaxation; this has not been scientifically confirmed.
- Dill contains calcium, which contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
- Dill is traditionally described as a carminative, meaning a herb used in folk practice to ease bloating.
- Some laboratory studies have examined dill extracts for antimicrobial properties. These are test-tube findings and do not show that dill prevents infections in people.
- Dill seeds and leaves are traditionally used as a mouth and breath freshener.
- In traditional folk practice, dill has been used for hiccups, menstrual complaints and respiratory congestion. These are traditional uses only and have not been confirmed by scientific evidence.
- In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, dill was considered a sign of wealth and was held in high regard in traditional practice.
Fun Facts:
- Dill was mentioned in both the Bible and in Ancient Egyption writings
- In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, dill was considered a sign of wealth and was revered for its many healing properties
- The conqueror Charlemagne made dill available on his banquet tables so his guests who indulged too much could benefit from its carminative properties
- Dill’s name comes from the old Norse world dilla which means “to lull”. This name reflects dill’s traditional uses both as a carminative stomach soother and insomnia reliever.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dill
https://plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/dill/infos
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/dill.html
http://justfunfacts.com/interesting-facts-about-dill/