The common name dill probably comes from the Saxon word dillan, meaning to lull, referring to the practice of giving dill to restless babies to make them sleep. Dill was suppose to be effective charm against witches.

Dill has been used since the time of the Egyptians, who mentioned it some 5,000 years ago in their writings. The herb acquired its present name from the use of its oil (Extracted from the seeds) in potions that soothed the colicky stomach of infants. Even now some families use dill water or gripe water to relieve digestive discomfort. The oil is also used commercially for scenting soaps.

Dill is also know as Aneton, Dilly, Dill Weed, and Garden Dill. It is a masculine or active herb, ruled by Mercury, and of the element of fire. It's magical powers are protection, money, lust, love and mind.

The herb is protective when hung at the door and carried in protective sachets. Placed in the cradle it protects children. And if placed over the door no one ill-disposed or envious of you can enter your house. Dill owning to the number of seed the plant produces, is used in money spells. Added to the bath it makes the bather irresistible, and dill stimulates lust if eaten or smelled, which is why dill pickles are so popular. Smell dill to cure hiccups. Hang a bunch of dill over your door, says an old folk belief and you will be protected against witches. Although such wonders are no longer required of the plant, other age old uses of sill in cookery and medicine have persisted into modern times. Dill is chiefly known today as a delightfully pungent, sharp tasting culinary herb, whose fresh leaves add interest to salads and fish and whose seeds give dill pickles, a side dish that came to American from Germany, their characteristic flavor. Dill seeds also add flavor to stews, sauces potato dishes and breads. The leaves can be dried for use throughout the year, commercial herb dealers package them as dillweed. But the fresh leaves have more flavor.