Dill—known as “shibith” (شِبِت) in Arabic.

Its bright, slightly tangy flavour adds a fresh note to many dishes. Plus it has medicinal benefits.

But let’s speak about HERBS generally first.

Allah mentions “HERBS” in the Qur’an both directly and indirectly,  as signs of Allah’s creation and blessings for human health and nourishment.

🌿 Herbs in the Qur’an:

1. General Mention of Herbs and Plants
   In Surah Abasa , chapter 80, verses 24-32 Allah speaks about how He brings forth various types of vegetation:

“Then let mankind look at his food – how We poured down water in torrents, then We broke open the earth, splitting it, and caused to grow within it grain, grapes, herbs, olives, and date palms…”
This highlights the importance of herbs and plants as provisions from Allah.

2. Basil – “Rayhan” (ريحان)
   Mentioned in Surah Ar-Rahman chapter 55, verses 55:12

“And grain having husks and scented plants (rayhan).”
“Rayhan” is often translated as “basil” or “fragrant herbs,” symbolizing both beauty and nourishment.

3. Surah Al-Baqarah chapter 2, verse 61

“And [recall] when you said, ‘O Moses, we can never endure one [kind of] food. So call upon your Lord to bring forth for us from the earth its herbs, its cucumbers, its garlic, its lentils, and its onions.’”
(Qur’an 2:61)

Herbs are  central to Prophetic medicine (Tibb al-Nabawi), where plants like black seed, the seeds of Nigella sativa herb plant and senna were recommended for various ailments.

TODAY LET US FOCUS ON THE HERB DILL, USED BY MANY  HOUSEWIVES AND CHEFS.

Dill is commonly found in many parts of the world, but it thrives especially in temperate and warm climates. Here’s a quick overview of where it’s commonly found and used:

Here’s how it’s commonly used:

Arabia: Common Uses of Dill in Arabic Cuisine:

1. In Rice Dishes
   • In Iraqi and Persian-Arab fusion cooking, dill is often added to rice with broad beans (fava beans)—a dish called “timman bagilla” or “baghali polo” in Persian, which is also popular in Arab regions.
   • It’s typically mixed into the rice during cooking, giving it a herby aroma and flavour.
2. In Dolma (Stuffed Vegetables)
   • Dill is part of the herb mix for stuffed grape leaves (waraq ‘inab) or other stuffed vegetables.
   • Mixed with rice, tomatoes, mint, and sometimes meat, dill adds a fragrant balance.
3. In Yogurt-Based Dishes
   • Dill is  used in yogurt sauces or dips called HAYDARI, similar to tzatziki ( this dish is known in some Arabic regions as laban bi khiyar).
   • It’s a fresh garnish or mixed into chilled yogurt soups.
4. In Fish Recipes
   • Coastal Arab regions use dill as a seasoning for grilled or baked fish, often with lemon, garlic, and olive oil.
5. In Salads
   • Chopped dill is sometimes added to Arabic salads, like Salad Olivier,  Fattoush or Tabbouleh, especially in Levantine homes where families enjoy mixing up the herb combinations.
   • But we should not be restricted by these traditional uses.

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• Europe: Widely used in Eastern European and Scandinavian cuisine—especially in dishes like pickles, soups, and fish.
• Asia: Common in Indian, Persian (Iranian), and Central Asian cooking.
• North America: Grown in gardens and available in grocery stores and farmers’ markets; popular in pickling and seasoning.
• Mediterranean: Native to the Mediterranean region and still widely used in cuisines around the area.

Dill grows best in sunny spots with well-drained soil and is often grown at home for culinary and medicinal uses. Want tips for growing it yourself?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DILL

Dill is a fragrant herb rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids, which may reduce inflammation and support heart health.

It’s a good source of vitamin C, aiding immune function, and anti-ageing.

 It also contains vitamin A, promoting eye and skin health.

Dill’s essential oils have antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections.

 It may support digestion by reducing bloating and gas, and some studies suggest it can help regulate blood sugar levels.

 Dill also contains calcium, important for bone health. Used fresh or dried, it’s a flavorful, low-calorie addition to meals that offers a variety of health-promoting compounds.