Dill - Anethum graveolens

The name Dill is said to come from the Anglo-Sacon dylle, or the Norse dilla which means to soothe or lull, which is interesting as Dill has a long tradition of use in Traditional Medicine as an aromatic carminative and stimulant for digestive disorders. In fact dill water or Gripe Water as it is more commonly known has been used for children for many years. During the Middle Ages it was prized as a protection against witchcraft. Another legend says that if dill is infused in wine it will enhance passion in those who drink it. Early settlers in North America used to call dill "Meeting House Seed" as it was given to the children to chew during the long sermons to keep then from feeling hungry.

Through steam distillation, Dill seeds yield between 2.5% - 4% essential oils with most of the oil consisting of carvone (35 - 60%)a ketone, d-limonene and a-phellandrene, both monoterpenes. Dill seed oil is reported to have spasmolytic effects on smooth muscles.

Dill seed oil is not used that much in aromatherapy massage, which is how I mostly practice as an aromatherapist, however its major benefits are on the digestive system where it helps to calm and promote proper digestion, as well as ease flatulence, constipation and hiccups. Its anti-fungal, antiseptic properties are great for wound care blends. It is also used to assist childbirth and stimulate milk production.

Recently I have come across reports of using dill in combination with fennel and coriander as a insulin/blood sugar regulator, however I have not been able to find any formal studies that support this use so far.

In Spiritual PhytoEssencing, Dill is associated with the Themes of Finance and Business.  A synergy of spikenard, lemon and dill might be a good Money Remedy Blend.

Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy (high ketone content).

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July 17 - 18: Aromatherapy Caddy Chemistry  This workshop has been cancelled however the course is available at any time in the Home Study Version.

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