Dill
Important Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any remedy, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.
Overview
Dill is an aromatic annual herb with feathery blue-green leaves and flat-topped yellow flower clusters. One of the oldest known spices, dill has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for over 5,000 years. Its seeds and leaves contain volatile oils with carminative (gas-relieving), antispasmodic, and mild sedative properties. Dill is particularly well-known for its use in gripe water for infant colic and as a galactagogue (milk-promoting herb) for nursing mothers.
Traditional Use
Dill has been used medicinally since ancient Egypt, where it was found in the tomb of Amenhotep II. Ancient Greeks and Romans used dill to treat digestive complaints, hiccups, and as a sleep aid. The name "dill" comes from the Norse word "dilla" meaning to lull or soothe. In medieval Europe, dill was used to ward off witches and as a remedy for digestive complaints. Traditional herbalists across Europe and Asia have used dill seeds for colic, flatulence, and to stimulate milk production in nursing mothers. Gripe water, a traditional remedy for infant colic, traditionally contained dill seed extract.
Key Active Compounds
Carvone
The primary volatile oil in dill seeds, responsible for its characteristic flavor and carminative (gas-relieving) properties. Relaxes smooth muscle in the digestive tract.
Limonene
A monoterpene with antispasmodic and mild sedative properties, contributing to dill's digestive and calming effects.
Anethole
A phytoestrogen-like compound that may support lactation and has mild antimicrobial properties.
Flavonoids (Kaempferol, Quercetin)
Antioxidant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Digestive support and gas relief
Traditional useDill is one of the most effective carminative herbs, relaxing intestinal spasms and promoting the expulsion of gas. Widely used for bloating, flatulence, and digestive cramping.
Infant colic relief
Some studiesDill seed extract is a traditional ingredient in gripe water for infant colic. Some clinical studies support its effectiveness in reducing colic symptoms in infants.
Lactation support
Traditional useDill has been used as a galactagogue (milk-promoting herb) in many cultures. Anethole and other compounds may stimulate prolactin production, though clinical evidence is limited.
Mild sedative and sleep support
Traditional useDill seed tea has been used as a mild sedative to promote sleep and reduce nervous tension, particularly in children.
Common Preparation Methods
Dill Seed Tea
Lightly crush 1 teaspoon of dill seeds and steep in 8 oz of hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink.
Dosage: 1-3 cups daily after mealsMost effective for digestive complaints when taken after meals.
Infant Gripe Water
For infants, use commercially prepared dill-based gripe water according to package instructions. Do not prepare homemade preparations for infants.
Dosage: As directed on commercial productAlways consult a pediatrician before giving any herbal remedy to infants.
Culinary Use
Add fresh dill weed to salads, fish dishes, soups, and yogurt. Add dill seeds to bread, pickles, and spice blends.
Dosage: As a food, freelyFresh dill weed is most nutritious; add at the end of cooking.
Dill Seed Tincture
Use a 1:5 tincture in 45% alcohol. Take 2-4 ml three times daily.
Dosage: 2-4 ml, 3 times dailyEffective for chronic digestive complaints.
Safety & Cautions
Please read carefully before use
Contraindications
- Allergy to Apiaceae family (celery, carrot, parsley, fennel)
- Pregnancy: avoid large medicinal doses (may stimulate uterine contractions)
- Bleeding disorders: dill may have mild anticoagulant effects
Drug Interactions
- Sedative medications: may enhance drowsiness
- Anticoagulants: mild additive effect at high doses
- Diabetes medications: may affect blood sugar
Possible Side Effects
- Rare allergic reactions in Apiaceae-sensitive individuals
- Photosensitivity with topical use of essential oil
- Mild digestive upset at high doses
Special Populations
- Pregnancy: safe as food; avoid large medicinal doses
- Infants: use only commercially prepared gripe water; consult pediatrician
- Breastfeeding: traditionally considered safe and beneficial
Sources & References
Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine
Breastfeeding Medicine
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Quick Reference
Apiaceae
Seeds, Leaves (dill weed), Essential oil
Fresh, slightly anise-like, warm, aromatic
Safety First
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.