Description

Dill essential oil is extracted from Anethum sowa – also known as Indian Dill. It is very closely related to A. graveolens, which is also known as Peucedanum graveolens and Fructus anethi and it is of the Umbelliferae (Apiaceae) family. The properties of these two types are very much alike, although the A. sowa is a more “rounded” oil in comparison.

On the mental plane, dill oil is used in aromatherapy to combat the feeling of being overwhelmed and in times of crisis, while physically, it assists with digestion, easing constipation and flatulence, as well as hiccups. It promotes the healing of wounds on the skin.

Oil properties

Dill oil has a grass-like smell and is pale yellow in color, with a watery viscosity.

Origin of Dill

Originally from South West Asia, Dill is an annual or biennial herb that grows up to 1 meter (3 feet). It has green feathery leaves and umbels of small yellow flowers, followed by tiny compressed seeds.

It was popular with the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, who called it “Anethon” from which the botanical name was derived. The common name comes from the Anglo-Saxon ‘dylle’ or ‘dylla’, which then changed to dill. The word means ‘to lull’ – referring to its soothing properties. In the Middle Ages it was used as a charm against witchcraft.

Since 1812, when Charlemagne, Emperor of France, ordered the extensive cultivation of this herb, it has been widely used, especially as a culinary herb.

Extraction

Dill oil is extracted by steam distillation, mainly from the seeds, or the whole herb, fresh or partly dried. Our oil is extracted by steam distillation from the crushed seed.

Chemical composition

The main chemical components of dill oil are d-carvone, dillapiol, dhc, eugenol, limonene, terpinene and myristicin.

Precautions

Dill oil is considered non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing, but should be avoided during pregnancy.

Therapeutic Properties

The therapeutic properties of dill oil are antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, disinfectant, galactagogue, sedative, stomachic and sudorific.

Uses

Gripe water is often made of the fresh herb and given to babies and children for colic, or other digestive disorders, but the dill oil should not be used for this purpose, as it is too powerful.

Dill oil helps to overcome the feeling of being overwhelmed and is also helpful for digestive problems in adults, easing flatulence, constipation and hiccups.

It eases the mind, calms headaches and helps with excess sweating due to nervous tension. It can also stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers, while promoting the healing of wounds.

Summary

Dill oil calms and soothes the nerves and is helpful for digestive problems in adults, while helping the healing of wounds.

• Burners and vaporizers
  • Dill essential oil can be used in vapor therapy for nervous tension, colic and indigestion and especially when you experience a feeling of being overwhelmed and in crisis.
• Massage oil or in the bath
  • It can be a most helpful aid to calm and promote proper digestion, easing flatulence, as well as constipation and hiccups.
• In a cream or lotion
  • When blended in a cream or lotion, it can have a very powerful effect on the healing of wounds.

More information about Dill Oil