![]()
Dill seed, wholeScientific Name: Anethum graveolens, Apiaceae family Common Names: American dill, anethum sowa, anethi herba, dilly, European dill, seed dill, madhura Part used: fruit of the dill plant, known as seed Compounds: calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, vitamin A. Amino acids: threonine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, valine, arginine, histidine Background: The earliest archaeological evidence of its cultivation is during the late Neolithic period. The plant was discovered in the tomb of Amenhotep II in Egypt and in Roman ruins in Britain. Recorded use is consistent from the time of the Egyptians 5,000 years ago. Dill's use is also evidenced in the writings of Dioscorides, as Anethon, and of Pliny. Teachings of the Talmud/Shas are interpreted to require all things of the plant. The English common name origin is associated with the Ancient Norse word dilla and, also, with the Anglo-Saxon word dylle. Pillows of fragrant, dried herb were placed in cradles to lull babies to sleep.. In the Middle Ages dill was prized for protection. It was infused in wine for increasing passion. Applications: Actions: anti-bacterial, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, galactogogue, stomachic, emmenagogue, sedative, anti-bacterial, calmative, and carminative. Dill seed is naturally high in mineral salts. A tea of dill seed will treat flatulence, hiccups, indigestion, insomnia, stomach or menstrual cramps, colds, flu, colic, and will increase lactation. Soaking fingernails in the tea will strengthen them. Description: A hardy annual, native to the Mediterranean and southern Russia, dill can grow to a height of 5 feet. Slender stems have alternate, finely divided, delicate leaves 10-20 cm long. The fully expressed leaf divisions measure 1-2 mm. Flowers are white to yellow, with small umbels 2-9 cm in diameter. The fruit (seeds) are 4-5 mm in length, 1 mm thick, straight to slightly curved with a longitudinally ridged surface. That which is commonly referred to as seed is actually the flat fruit of the plant. They have a slightly bitter taste. One ounce may consist of as many as 25,000 seeds. Dosage: seed : 3 grams 1 tsp (children) to 1 tbsp (adult) per dose; Taken after meals, 1/2 c. tea can be enjoyed 2x per day Dill seed has many culinary uses including spreads and salads (tuna, mock-tuna, potato), vegetables, soups, stews, and in pickling mixes, etc. Safety: There are no known health risks associated with use of this herb. More Bulk Herbs and Spices Information:
For educational purposes only
|
||

