Dill Herb

A handy herb to have around. As one gardener writes:

Ancient Egyptian medical texts list Dill as an oft-prescribed treatment for digestion problems and it was a staple in the garden in many European areas. Native to Africa, the Mediterranean area and the southern regions of Russia, it can easily be grown seasonally in most temperate regions. The Book of Matthew lists Dill as one of the herbs given as a tithe, and this plant is related to the carrot, cumin and parsley family.

Dill is often included in home remedies for indigestion, flatulence and other digestive complaints including those that cause cramping or discomfort. Ginger and Dill were often combined to help control excessive internal gas production, nausea and cramping. The mild action and safety of this plant allow it to be used for children's complaints including gastrointestinal flu, over eating, stomach ulcers and cramps associated with menstrual cycles.

Once a common home remedy used by physicians to treat colic, a painful condition in infants, and to promote lactation the essential oil of Dill was often used. A few drops of Dill oil was placed in a small amount of water and lessened the discomfort of colic when given to babies suffering from this condition. Gripe water is an old home remedy for colic and included Dill, baking soda and alcohol and today is available commercially in a formula that does not contain alcohol. Lactating mothers often drank Dill herb tea to help improve and maintain breast milk production and the small quantities of Dill that are secreted in breast milk has been said to lessen the discomfort of colic as well. (Read entire post.)

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