Benefits
Dill is packed with flavonoids, which have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have also shown that dill can be used to help manage diabetes. Dill goes well with fish and eggs, which are safe for people with diabetes to eat. Using dill and other herbs to flavor food can be a good alternative to sweeter, processed flavorings.
Additional Details
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.
Although the plant is originally native
to Asia and the Mediterranean, it is now naturalized in other parts of
the world, including North America.
The flat, oval-shaped seeds resemble caraway in taste and are used in
much the same way in the same types of foods. It is a staple in eastern
European cuisine, where it is used to flavor breads, vegetables, braised
meats and soups.
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 Earth religions it was and is used for its magical properties to prevent mischievous witchcraft. A pouch of dried dill was worn over the heart to protect and to clear the mind; To confer blessings it was placed in the home and kitchen.
In the Middle Ages dill was prized for protection. It was infused in wine for increasing passion. Dill seed is naturally high in mineral salts. Used after eating as a breath freshener. Dill seed has many culinary uses including spreads and salads (tuna, mock-tuna, potato), vegetables, soups, stews, and in pickling mixes, etc.
