Dill originated in Central Asia and is usually now imported from Egypt, other Mediterranean countries or Eastern Europe. The variety grown in India is more pungent, so beware if following an Indian recipe; less dill is needed.
Its name came from the Old Norse word "dilla," meaning "to soothe" or "to lull." Ancient Egyptian physicians used dill as a digestive aid, as did traditional Chinese medical practitioners, especially for children. Dill water made from steeping the seeds was used to ease colic in babies, as it has anti-gas properties, as well as being a mild sedative.
In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, dill was thought to be a sign of wealth, as well as being known for its healing properties. Burnt dill seeds were applied to the wounds of soldiers to foster healing, as it is an antiseptic, inhibiting bacterial growth. Dill fronds may have been placed over the eyes at night to help one sleep.
Talmudic records show that dill was valuable enough to be tithed.
In medieval times, dill was both used in witchcraft, notably by burning it to clear clouds and thunderstorms. and as protection from witchcraft. A charm made from dill leaves or bunches of dill hung by the door was the remedy. Drinking dill water was also considered effective in removing a witch's spell.
Other past uses include adding it to wine to create passion, or bathing in it to become irresistible to one's paramour.
Dill was brought by the colonists to the New World. They used dill water as a folkloric remedy for colic, cough, indigestion, gas, stomachache and insomnia, as well as jaundice, hemorrhoids, scurvy and hiccups. Children were given dill seeds to chew to calm them during long sermons, leading to the moniker "meetin' seeds."
Its name came from the Old Norse word "dilla," meaning "to soothe" or "to lull." Ancient Egyptian physicians used dill as a digestive aid, as did traditional Chinese medical practitioners, especially for children. Dill water made from steeping the seeds was used to ease colic in babies, as it has anti-gas properties, as well as being a mild sedative.
In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, dill was thought to be a sign of wealth, as well as being known for its healing properties. Burnt dill seeds were applied to the wounds of soldiers to foster healing, as it is an antiseptic, inhibiting bacterial growth. Dill fronds may have been placed over the eyes at night to help one sleep.
Talmudic records show that dill was valuable enough to be tithed.
In medieval times, dill was both used in witchcraft, notably by burning it to clear clouds and thunderstorms. and as protection from witchcraft. A charm made from dill leaves or bunches of dill hung by the door was the remedy. Drinking dill water was also considered effective in removing a witch's spell.
Other past uses include adding it to wine to create passion, or bathing in it to become irresistible to one's paramour.
Dill was brought by the colonists to the New World. They used dill water as a folkloric remedy for colic, cough, indigestion, gas, stomachache and insomnia, as well as jaundice, hemorrhoids, scurvy and hiccups. Children were given dill seeds to chew to calm them during long sermons, leading to the moniker "meetin' seeds."