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.
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.
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.