The importance of Dill and Fennel

Is this plant called Dill or a Fennel?

This herb has been planted beside our house about three years ago. My sister has been constantly telling me that this plant is called Dill – a very popular culinary herb. I am not too much familiar with the actual properties of Dill. But we know that Dill and Fennel are resembled with each other.

Anyway, Dill is used for culinary and for medicine as well. It is a cooling, soothing herb which aids digestion, prevents constipation and is an ingredient of “gripe water” given to babies for indigestion. Poultices of the leaves are applied to boils and to reduce swelling and joint pains. Seeds are chewed to cure bad breath. In culinary – leaves and seeds add a caraway-like flavor to fish, seafood and egg dishes and go well with bland-tasting vegetables, especially cucumber and potatoes.

Nonetheless, she sent to me a photo of the fennel flower she had taken during one of her travel at Isle of Wight. Fennel is also used for culinary and for medicine too. An infusion of the seeds soothes the digestive system, and is said to increase the production of breast milk in nursing mothers as well as being settling for the baby. Also used as a mouthwash for gum disorders and a gargle for sore throats. In culinary – leaves and seeds go well with fish, especially oily fish, such as mackerel. Seeds lend savor to stir-fry and rice dishes. The rounded stems of Florence fennel are eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable.