This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
As a child, my only association with the dill herb was with pickles. I don’t remember my mom or grandmother adding dill to potato salads or other dishes. However, as my appreciation for plants continues to grow, this aromatic herb ranks high on my list of favorites.
Dills grows in my herb garden. I add it to potato dishes, salads, dressings and other recipes. I’ve yet to brew dill tea, but why not? The more I study this herb, the more I love it and appreciate its health benefits.
Join me in healing with dill.
Origins of Dill
Dill, also commonly called dill weed, originated in the Mediterranean region. It’s been used medicinally and as a spice since ancient times. Dill, which means “calm” or “soothe”, is related to parsley, cumin and the bay leaf.
Long ago dill was primarily used to calm the digestive system and soothe colicky babies. Greek doctors treated wounds with it and believed the herb delivered courage to those who consumed it.
Dill grows 16 – 30 inches tall. The thin leaves are delicate, finely divided and very soft. It blooms in clusters of yellow or white flowers.
Fresh dill weed contains fiber, protein, manganese, folate, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C.
Healing with Dill
Health benefits of dill include:
Protects Against Free Radicals
Dill helps antioxidants to attach to oxidized molecules that damage the body.
Aids Digestion
The fatty acids in dill soothe an upset stomach and improves the whole digestive system. The herb increases energy levels as well.
Lowers Cholesterol
Dill lowers bad cholesterol and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Relieves Depression
The herb has antidepressant and analgesic benefits, without the negative side effects of drugs.
May Help with Epilepsy
Dill leaf extract shows promise as an anticonvulsant, which aids in the treatment of epilepsy.
Possesses Antimicrobial Properties
Dill fights fungi, bacteria and mold, making it helpful against fungal and bacterial infections.
Sweetens the Breath
For centuries, people have chewed on the leaves of the dill herb to freshen breath and cleanse the mouth.
Helps to Relieve Menstrual Cramps
Dill weed reduces menstrual discomfort and pain.
Relieves Arthritis Pain
Dill is an anti-inflammatory that reduces inflammation and the associated pain of disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and arthritis.
Using Dill
Dill weed is available in fresh or dried form at most grocery stores. It is also fairly easy to grow. The herb prefers a sunny location and thrives well in heat. Due to massive amounts of rain this spring, I moved my dill plant into a container. The water drains more quickly, keeping the soil from getting boggy.
Use fresh or dried dill in potato or veggie recipes, soups, salads and sauces. One of my favorite uses for fresh or dried dill is as a seasoning on oven roasted potatoes. Dice up four potatoes and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon coconut oil, and a teaspoon each of dill, rosemary and thyme. Stir well to coat potatoes. Roast on a parchment paper covered baking sheet in 400 degree oven for 40 minutes.
I also love the simplicity of snipping fresh dill and chives from my garden to top a plain baked potato. Delicious! It is also easy to prepare a wonderful DIY salad dressing using Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise, fresh or dried dill and lemon juice.
Try these great recipes as well, featuring dill:
What’s Next with Dill
I love dill so much. I’m not only healing with dill, I’m learning how to use the herb in ways that go far beyond pickles. Dill tea is definitely on my list of herbal teas to try. I’ll let you know when I experience it!
Purchase dried dill below:
Journey With Healthy Me is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.