Dill
Dill
Dill, also known as Sowa, is an aromatic herb which is used as a spice and flavouring agent in various food preparations. It is also used in Ayurveda for various medicinal purposes since ancient times.
According to Ayurveda, Dill is useful for digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It also helps to improve appetite by enhancing the Agni (digestive fire) of the body due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It is used as a potent household remedy to get relief from stomachache and gas due to its carminative property. It helps in managing blood sugar levels by protecting the pancreatic cells due to its antioxidant property.
Dill is useful for kidney problems as it increases urine production due to its diuretic property. It also protects the kidney cells against damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property.
Dill oil might help promote wound healing due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying Dill oil along with lemon juice and coconut oil might also help in managing spasms.
It should be kept in mind that Dill might cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to plants in the carrot family like asafoetida, caraway, celery, coriander, fennel etc., so it is advisable to consult a physician before using Dill[2-4].
According to Ayurveda, Dill is useful for digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It also helps to improve appetite by enhancing the Agni (digestive fire) of the body due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It is used as a potent household remedy to get relief from stomachache and gas due to its carminative property. It helps in managing blood sugar levels by protecting the pancreatic cells due to its antioxidant property.
Dill is useful for kidney problems as it increases urine production due to its diuretic property. It also protects the kidney cells against damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property.
Dill oil might help promote wound healing due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying Dill oil along with lemon juice and coconut oil might also help in managing spasms.
It should be kept in mind that Dill might cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to plants in the carrot family like asafoetida, caraway, celery, coriander, fennel etc., so it is advisable to consult a physician before using Dill[2-4].
What are the synonyms of Dill?
Anethum sowa, Anethum gravelons, Shatpushpa, Satapuspa, Suva, Sulpha, Shulupa, Shulupa, Indian Dil Fruit, Sova, Sabasige, Badishep, Shepa, Shepu, Satakuppa, Sadapa[1].
What is the source of Dill?
Plant Based
Benefits of Dill
Modern Science View
Dill might help manage high cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant property. The antioxidants such as rutin and quercetin present in Dill lower the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides[6].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol occurs due to an imbalance of Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion leads to the formation and accumulation of toxins in the form of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which then obstructs the blood vessels. Dill helps improve digestion and prevents the formation of toxins, thereby maintaining normal cholesterol levels due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, Loss of appetite is related to Agnimandya (weak digestion). Loss of appetite is caused by an aggravation of Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas, as well as certain psychological factors. It leads to incomplete digestion of food and causes insufficient secretion of gastric juices in the stomach, which results in appetite loss. Dill helps in managing Loss of appetite by enhancing the Agni (digestive fire) which leads to an improved appetite due to its Ushna (hot) property.
Tip to use Dill to increase appetite-
1. Cooked Dill is very beneficial for all digestive conditions.
2. Dill can also be consumed with salad.
Tip to use Dill to increase appetite-
1. Cooked Dill is very beneficial for all digestive conditions.
2. Dill can also be consumed with salad.
Modern Science View
Dill reduces the risk of Infections due to the presence of certain constituents that have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. It has the ability to fight against bacterial action and prevent infections[9].
Ayurvedic View
Digestive tract problems like indigestion, anorexia, nausea and vomiting occur due to an imbalance of any of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) when Agni (digestive fire) gets weak. Dill enhances the Agni which improves digestion and reduces the symptoms of Digestive tract problems due to its Vata-Kapha balancing, Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Modern Science View
Dill essential oil might help manage Flatulence due to its carminative property. It reduces the accumulation of gas in the alimentary canal and facilitates the expulsion of gas, thereby providing relief from Flatulence[9].
Ayurvedic View
Flatulence is caused due to an imbalance of Vata and Pitta Dosha. Low Pitta Dosha and aggravated Vata Dosha result in low digestive fire which impairs digestion and leads to flatulence. Dill helps enhance Agni (digestive fire) and improves digestion, thereby relieving flatulence due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Ayurvedic View
Cold usually occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha. This leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and leads to an obstruction in the respiratory passage. Dill helps prevent the formation of mucus and also expels it out from the respiratory passages, thereby providing relief from Cold due to its Ushna (hot) and Vata-Kapha balancing properties.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Cold-
1. Take a few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Cold.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Cold-
1. Take a few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Cold.
Ayurvedic View
Cough usually occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha. This leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and leads to an obstruction in the respiratory passage. Dill helps prevent the formation of mucus and also expels it out from the respiratory passages, thereby providing relief from cough due to its Ushna (hot) and Vata-Kapha balancing properties.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Cough-
1. Take few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Cough.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Cough-
1. Take few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Cough.
Ayurvedic View
Bronchitis usually occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha. This leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and leads to an obstruction in the respiratory passage. Dill helps prevent the formation of mucus and also expels it out from the respiratory passages, thereby providing relief from Bronchitis due to its Ushna (hot) and Vata-Kapha balancing properties.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Bronchitis-
1. Take a few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Bronchitis.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Bronchitis-
1. Take a few Dill leaves.
2. Make an infusion by soaking them in water overnight.
3. Consume this with a bit of honey 2-3 times daily to get relief from Bronchitis.
Ayurvedic View
Liver problems like indigestion, anorexia, nausea and vomiting occur due to an imbalance of any of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) when Agni (digestive fire) gets weak. Dill enhances the Agni which improves digestion and reduces the symptoms of Liver problems due to its Vata-Kapha balancing, Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Ayurvedic View
Sore throat and mouth is a symptom that occurs due to weak or poor digestion, which leads to Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). Dill helps enhance Agni (digestive fire) and improve digestion, thereby providing relief from Sore throat and mouth due to its Ushna (hot), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Ayurvedic View
Gallbladder problems like gallstones might lead to certain symptoms like nausea and vomiting generally occur due to imbalanced Pitta dosha as well as weak or poor digestion caused by weak Agni (digestive fire). Dill helps manage Gallbladder problems as it enhances Agni and improves digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
How effective is Dill?
Insufficient evidence
Common cold, Cough, Flatulence (gas formation), Gallbladder stones, High cholesterol, Indigestion, Infections, Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis), Liver disease, Loss of appetite, Sore throat
Precautions when using Dill
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Dill might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. So, it is generally advisable to avoid the use of Dill at least 2 weeks before surgery[5].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Dill might cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to plants in the carrot family like asafoetida, caraway, celery, coriander, and fennel. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Dill[5][7].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Dill might lower blood glucose levels if taken in amounts higher than food quantity. So, it is advisable for diabetics to consult a physician before using Dill[5].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Dill is not recommended in pregnancy as it might cause bleeding and lead to a miscarriage. It is advisable to avoid the use of Dill or consult a physician before using Dill during pregnancy[5][7].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Diarrhea
2. Vomiting
3. swelling in the throat[7].
2. Vomiting
3. swelling in the throat[7].
Recommended Dosage of Dill
- Dill Powder - 1-3 gms twice a day[1].
How to use Dill
Dill powder
a. Take 1-3 gm of Dill powder.
b. Swallow it with water once a day after taking food.
c. Take this on a daily basis to get improve digestion.
a. Take 1-3 gm of Dill powder.
b. Swallow it with water once a day after taking food.
c. Take this on a daily basis to get improve digestion.
FAQs about Dill how to take
Benefits of Dill
Modern Science View
Dill helps manage Spasms due to its antispasmodic property. The essential oils present in Dill seeds provide relief from intestinal spasms. It stabilizes brain activity and blocks the entrance of calcium and sodium into gastrointestinal smooth muscles, thereby preventing spasms[12].
Ayurvedic View
Spasm is a condition that generally occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha. It leads to the contraction of muscles which results in spasmodic pain. Dill helps provide warmth to the muscles which prevents and reduces Spasm due to its Vata balancing and Ushna (hot) properties.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Spasms-
1. Take a few drops of Dill essential oil.
2. Add a few drops of lemon oil and 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil to it.
3. Apply on the affected area regularly to get relief from Spasms.
Tip to use Dill to get relief from Spasms-
1. Take a few drops of Dill essential oil.
2. Add a few drops of lemon oil and 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil to it.
3. Apply on the affected area regularly to get relief from Spasms.
How effective is Dill?
Insufficient evidence
Pain due to smooth muscle spasm
Precautions when using Dill
Allergy
Modern Science View
Dill might cause skin irritation and allergies in people allergic to plants in the carrot family such as asafoetida, caraway, celery, coriander, and fennel. So, it is recommended to consult a physician before using Dill on the skin[5].
Recommended Dosage of Dill
- Dill Oil - 0.05-0.2 ml once or twice a day[16].
How to use Dill
Dill oil
a. Take 0.05-0.2 ml of Dill oil.
b. Apply on the affected area to get relief from spasms.
a. Take 0.05-0.2 ml of Dill oil.
b. Apply on the affected area to get relief from spasms.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Dill is a green herb having thread-like leaves present in clusters. It has a distinctive taste similar to that of fennel with a slightly bitter taste.
Modern Science View
No, fennel leaves are longer than that of Dill and both have different flavor profiles.
Modern Science View
Dill leaves should always be stored in the refrigerator. They are slightly fragile so should be stored carefully.
Modern Science View
Fresh Dill will usually last up to 10-14 days in the refrigerator.
Modern Science View
Yes, raw seeds and leaves of Dill can be eaten as a mouth freshener.
Modern Science View
Dill can be used as a spice, flavoring agent and medicinal agent.
Modern Science View
The seasonings similar to Dill include fennel, thyme, rosemary, tarragon and parsley.
Modern Science View
Dill goes well with many foods such as potatoes, grains, seafood, creamy dressings, cheese, eggs, greens, onions, tomatoes etc.
Modern Science View
No, Dill and anise are different.
Modern Science View
Dill is very reasonable and its cost varies from region to region.
Modern Science View
No, Dill cannot be rooted in water.
Modern Science View
Dill water can be made by the following steps:
1. Take a few Dill leaves and clean them properly.
2. Soak it in water overnight.
3. Boil it in enough water.
4. Strain it and store it in glass bottles.
1. Take a few Dill leaves and clean them properly.
2. Soak it in water overnight.
3. Boil it in enough water.
4. Strain it and store it in glass bottles.
Modern Science View
Fresh fennel can be used as a substitute for Dill.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill and soya leaves are the same.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill can easily be grown indoors.
Modern Science View
Yes, dried Dill and fresh Dill are as good as fresh ones. They have nearly the same beneficial effects on the body and can be used interchangeably.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill might be helpful in diuresis. It contains certain components (flavonoids and tannins) that increase the production of urine and promote diuresis[11].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Dill is good for digestion due to its Ushna (hot), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It helps in enhancing Agni (digestive fire) which leads to good and improved digestion.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill is considered to be good for diabetics. It contains certain constituents that have blood sugar lowering activity. It also prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion, thus further managing blood sugar levels[7].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes is a condition that occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha and leads to disturbed insulin levels in the body. Dill helps reduce the symptoms of diabetes by maintaining normal insulin levels due to its Katu (pungent) and Vata-Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill might be good for the kidneys due to its nephroprotective activity. It has antioxidants that fight against the free radicals and protect the body from renal damage[8].
Ayurvedic View
Certain kidney problems like improper urination or renal calculi occur due to an imbalance of Vata and Kapha dosha. Dill helps manage kidney problems like improper urination or calculi due to its Vata-Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Dill in gout.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Dill in insomnia.
Modern Science View
Dill might help control uterine contractions due to the presence of a component known as Anethol, thereby managing dysmenorrhea[10].
Ayurvedic View
Dysmenorrhea is a condition of painful menstruation which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha. Dill helps reduce pain by balancing the dosha and providing warmth to the muscles, thereby providing relief from period pain due to its Vata balancing and Ushna (hot) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill can be used for children and infants to relieve flatulence and colic. It is added as an important ingredient to gripe water[11].
Ayurvedic View
Dill seeds and leaves both are used for medicinal purposes. Dil seeds or leaves help to keep digestion healthy due to their Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. Dill also helps reduce the risk of heart disease by improving the metabolism of cholesterol due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Ayurvedic View
Dill seeds can prove to be beneficial for weight loss. They add nutritional value to your diet and can help provide a boost to your weight loss journey.
Ayurvedic View
You can chew Dill seeds or add some fresh Dill leaves to your dish. Dill is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron. Using Dill in your diet will keep the nutrition bar of your body loaded along with better weight management.
Ayurvedic View
Dill tea can be made in very few easy steps:
Take 2 cups of water
Boil the water for 5-10 minutes
Mash Dill seeds and mix about ½ teaspoon in this water
Now, steep the dill seeds in boiling water till the color of tea turn to light yellowish color
After that, filter the seeds from tea and have a hot healthy cup of tea
Take 2 cups of water
Boil the water for 5-10 minutes
Mash Dill seeds and mix about ½ teaspoon in this water
Now, steep the dill seeds in boiling water till the color of tea turn to light yellowish color
After that, filter the seeds from tea and have a hot healthy cup of tea
Modern Science View
Dill oil is used as a fragrance providing agent in soaps and cosmetics. Some chemicals present in dill seed might help relax muscles. Dill is commonly used as a cooking spice. Dill is loaded with various properties that might help to fight bacteria and increase urine production.
Modern Science View
Dill is used to treat various conditions related to stomach upset, including flatulence, gastritis, enteritis, diarrhea, stomach pain, hiccups, etc[17].
Modern Science View
Dill has a calming, antispasmodic property that can help soothe indigestion. It is advisable to dilute dill in a ratio of 1 drop per teaspoon of carrier oil. Then blend thoroughly, and massage the mixture onto a baby's skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill can be used to provide relief from pain with menstrual cramps in women. Certain constituents present in Dill can aid in providing comfort from menstrual pain [18]. As a home remedy you can take 1,000 mg of dill for five days, starting two days before your cycle. This may help reduce the pain caused due to menstrual cramps.
Ayurvedic View
Menstrual cramps generally occur due to the aggravation of Vata dosha. Using Dill helps to control Vata and reduce the frequency of menstrual cramps because of its Ushna(hot) and Vata balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Dill might help manage dementia due to its antioxidant activity. It inhibits the activity of an enzyme which decreases the deposition or cluster formation of protein in the brain. This helps in reducing the risk of memory loss in the case of dementia[13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Dill oil might be considered good for wound healing due to its antioxidant property. The phytoconstituents present in Dill help in wound contraction and closure. It helps in the formation of collagen and new skin cells. It also reduces the risk of infection at the wound site due to its antimicrobial properties[14].
Ayurvedic View
A wound is generally seen after an external injury and it leads to certain symptoms like pain or inflammation. These symptoms occur due to an imbalanced Vata dosha. Dill might help provide relief from inflammation and pain at the site of a wound due to its Vata balancing property, thereby helping with wound healing.
Ayurvedic View
Head lice usually thrive when hair gets dirty due to sweating or excessive dryness. These conditions occur due to an imbalance of Kapha and Vata dosha. Dill helps reduce excessive sweating and dryness and keeps the scalp in a healthy state, thereby preventing the occurrence of head lice due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
Ayurvedic View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Dill in skin problems. However, it might help fight against the bacterial action on the skin due to its antibacterial property[11][14].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Dhiman C, Kumar N, Kothiyal P.Pharmacological actions of Anethum graveolens (Dill). Journal of Pharmacy Research.2017;11(5):511-516.
- Saleh-e-In MM, Sultana N, Hossain NM, et al.Pharmacological effects of the phytochemicals of Anethum sowa L. root extracts.BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2016;16(464):1-14.
- AL-SNAFI EA.THE PHARMACOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF ANETHUM GRAVEOLENS.A REVIEW.International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences2014;6(4):11-13.
- WebMD.Dill: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Oshaghi EA, Khodadadi I, Saidijam M, et al.Lipid lowering effects of Hydroalcoholic extract of Anethum graveolens L. and Dill Tablet in High Cholesterol Fed Hamsters.Hindawi Publishing Corporation. 2015;(2015):1-7.
- Goodarzi MT, Khodadadi I, Tavilani H, et al.The Role of Anethum graveolens L. (Dill) in the management of Diabetes. Hindawi Publishing Corporation.2016.(2016):1-11.
- Srivastava P, Rao R, Shenoy PJ, et al. Nephroprotective effect of Anethum graveolens in a murine model of Gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity.J Young Pharm.2018;10(2):155-158.
- Pathak V, Dwivedi R, Shukla P.Pharmacognostical study of Anethum Sowa (Dill) seed.International Journal of Recent Biotechnology.2014;2(3):6-14.
- Heidarifar R, Mehran N, Heidari A, et al.Effect of Dill (Anethum graveolens) on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea in compared with mefenamic acid : A randomized, double- blind trial.Journal of Research in Medical Sciences.2014;19(4):32-330.
- Jana S, Shekhawat GS. Anethum graveolens: An Indian traditional medicinal herb and spice.Pharmacognosy Review.2010;4(8):179-184.
- Arash A, Mohammad MZ, Jamal MS, et al. Effects of the aqueous extract of Anethum graveolens leaves on Seizure induced by Pentylenetetrazole in Mice.The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences.2013;20(5):23-30.
- Koppula S, Choi DK. Anethum Graveolens LInn (Umbelliferae) extract attenuates stress-induced urinary biochemical changes and improves cognition in Scopolamine-induced Amnesic rats. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. 2011;10(1):47-54.
- Manzuoerh R, Farahpour MR, Oryan A, et al. Effectiveness of topical administration of Anethum graveolens essential oil on MRSA - infected wounds.Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy.2019;109:1650-1658.
- Payahoo L, Ostadrahimi A, Mobasseri M, et al.Anethum graveolens L. supplementation has anti-inflammatory effect in type 2 diabetes patients.Indian Journal of Traditional Medicine.2014;13(3):461-465.
- Martindale W, Todd R G. Extra Pharmacopoeia; Incorporating "Squires Companion". ”Oils, essential and aromatic carminatives”. 1967.pg 854.
- Gupta R, ... Sharma YK, Handbook of Herbs and Spices (Second Edition), Volume 1, 2012.
- Heidarifar R, Mehran N, Heidari A, Ahmari Tehran H, Koohbor M, Kazemian Mansourabad M. Effect of Dill (Anethum graveolens) on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea in compared with mefenamic acid: A randomized, double-blind trial. J Res Med Sci. 2014 Apr; 19(4): 326–330
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.