Dill

Botanically it is called Anethum graveolens. Dill is the common name of a Eurasian annual or biennial herb belonging to the parsley family. It is widely used for seasoning food. The dill plant grows up to 3-4 feet high and has a long-spindle shaped root, a branched stem, fine divided leaves and compound clusters of yellow flowers. Although the entire plant is aromatic, the largest amount of volatile oil of dill (Oleven amethi) is present in the seeds. Dill oil, a minor essential oil, is produced by steam distillation from the herb and from the mature fruit. The main constituent is carvone.

Dill has been cultivated in the Mediterranean area since ancient times. It is also now grown in many other parts of Europe, in the United States and in India. The young leaves and the seeds are used for seasoning foods. Dill vinegar, made by steeping the seeds in vinegar for several days, is used for flavouring and pickling. Dill seeds are also used medicinally for their carminative or gas-expelling properties.

Dill plant is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It is very useful in liver and stomach disorders.

Benefit and uses of Dill.

• Dill as a very good source of calcium. Calcium is important for reducing the bone loss that occurs after menopause and in some conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Our food ranking system also qualified dill as a good source of dietary fiber and a good source of the minerals manganese, iron and magnesium.
• Dill tea is used as a stomach soother, to overcome insomnia and even to cure hiccups. In its diluted form, it may be used as a remedy for gas in infants.
• It is an effective ingredient of gripe water used for babies.
• Dill used in worldwide, especially Scandinavia, where it is used to flavor eggs, seafood and fish. 
• Dill eases the mind, calms headaches and helps with excess sweating due to nervous tension. It can also stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers, while promoting the healing of wounds.
• The seeds are used in pickling and can also improve the taste of roasts, stews and vegetables.
• Dill is a common ingredient of many soaps and perfumes. The seed contains up to 4% essential oils. It is also used in food flavouring.