The health benefits of dill
Dill weed is a feathery green herb which is used for cooking delicious meals and is packed
full of nutrients.
This comes from the Anethum Graveolens plant and was used as a "soothing medicine" in Ancient
Egypt at least 5,000 years ago.
In today's video we will explore 20 facts and benefits of dill, and explain why this
is excellent in the human diet.
1. Antibacterial Dill is an excellent herb for fighting off
infections such as cold or flu. It has been shown to have antibacterial effects and can
kill off harmful microbes. Many farmers plant dill near wheat and barley because it helps
to prevent harmful fungal infections from infecting crops.
2. Depression Many people suffer with depression and low
mood which can cause problems in their day to day lives. Dill weed has been used for
centuries as a natural remedy for depression. Studies show that dill acts as a natural anti-depressant
due to the many phytonutrients it contains.
3. Athletes' Foot The natural compounds found inside the dill
plant help to fight off fungal infections, especially on the feet and between the toes.
You can apply dill essential oil to the problem area daily to fight off candida and heal this
problem naturally over 1-2 weeks.
4. Pickles Dill is commonly used to add flavour to pickles
and fermented vegetables. The leaves and crushed seeds can be used to impart a wonderful flavour
to these, and provides additional health benefits.
5. Anti-Aging As we get older our cells can become damaged
by free radicals. Dill contains monoterpene effects which help to reduce the effects of
free radicals in the body. Dill acts as an antioxidant helping to protect the body from
advanced aging.
6. Menstrual Cramps It is recommended that women get more herbs
like dill, coriander and ginger into their diet. These have been shown to reduce painful
periods and menstrual cramps by improving blood flow.
7. Insect Repellent Dill oil is also one of the best natural pest
repellents in the world. It has been shown to help kill off harmful bugs. We recommend
applying a little dill oil to outer door frames and windows to keep bugs out of the home.
8. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder
which can cause seizures. Dill extract has been used as a traditional medicine to help
treat this problem. Malaysian studies show that dill extract acts as an anticonvulsant
and can reduce seizures as a natural alternative.
9. Breast Feeding Nursing mothers may consider eating dill seeds
on a regular basis. These are rich in magnesium, iron and calcium. These minerals support healthy
breast milk production. Dill leaves are also a rich source of folate which is very important
during the pregnancy stage of foetal development.
10. Reduce Stress If you are suffering with stress or anxiety
you can make a poultice by mashing dill leaves. Apply the paste to the chest and gently inhale
the aroma. This has a natural calming effect on the body which was noted by the Ancient
Egyptians, and can reduce symptoms of stress, nervousness and restlessness.
11. Settles Stomach Traditionally dill was used as a carminative
to help settle the stomach, especially for infants suffering with colic. The name "dill"
comes from the Saxon word "Dillan" which means "to dull" a restless child to sleep. This
was also fed to Roman warriors to ease digestion.
12. Skin Health You can also apply dill paste to the skin
to help fight off acne and pimples. The antioxidants in the plant help to fight off harmful fungal
and microbial infections of the skin, and reduce redness and swelling.
13. Essential Oil You can purchase dill essential oil to use
in aromatherapy. This can be combined with other calming oils such as ylang ylang or
jasmine to calm the body and mind. This is often placed in oil burners or massage oils.
14. Fish Recipes Dill is most commonly used for cooking dishes
which involve fish. It has a strong distinctive taste similar to a combination of fennel,
anise and celery with warm undertones. We recommend Dover Sole with Lemon, Dill and
Leeks.
15. Nutrients Dill contains Beta Carotene, Vitamin C, Manganese,
Folate, Iron and Calcium. It is also rich in phytonutrients and antioxidant compounds
which help to rejuvenate and protect the human body.
16. How To Store Do not wash dill until you are ready to use
it, because it wilts very quickly. This should be kept free of moisture if possible, especially
before storing in the refrigerator. Keep this in an air tight container for up to 10 days.
You can also add a paper towel into the container to absorb any moisture and keep the dill fresh.
If harvesting your own dill, you may store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
17. How To Use We highly recommend using chopped or whole
dill weed in soups, salads, casseroles, stir fries, stews, meat dishes or with eggs. It
is also used by many chefs in healthy dips such as hummus and works well with mustard.
18. Dill Tea You can make a soothing tea by simply steeping
dill in 1 cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes. This tea can be sipped to settle the stomach,
provide a sense of peace, treat hiccups, reduce flatulence, swelling and insomnia.
19. Side Effects Dill can cause skin irritation in some people
when applied directly to the skin. It may also trigger an allergic reaction to those
who are allergic to plants in the carrot family.
20. Caution Always consult a doctor before using herbal
medicine, especially if you are taking existing medications or prescriptions. Sometimes herbs
can interact with these drugs.
As you can see, dill weed is a fantastic herb for supporting a healthy overall body, and
can be easily introduced into the diet.
We highly recommend consuming dill leaves slightly raw or uncooked to protect their
delicate antioxidants and phytonutrients.
These work well to add a unique flavour to salads and as a finishing herb for meats.
To learn more about super foods and nutrition please see our other videos.
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I wish you great health, wealth and happiness.