Bilberry

scientific name

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Bilberry is a small edible dark blueberry of a low-growing shrub in the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically referred as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close relative of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, and cranberry. These are delicious berries are native to Northern Europe and have been valued for their therapeutic effectiveness in the conventional system of European medicine since many centuries.

Bilberry is a spreading, low-growing, deciduous shrub with slender branches having tiny pinkish blossoms and bright green, oval and pointed leaves. The plant yields dark purple berries harvested during summer time and can be used fresh or in dried form. Today, they are cultivated in Northern Asia, Europe, and North America and are becoming quite popular as a delicious ingredient in preserves, pies, and jams as well as for their ability to treat a range of health conditions.

Health Benefits Of Bilberry

Improves Vision

Bilberry is useful for the maintenance of eye health. Scientific studies have also advocated the effectiveness of bilberry extract in preventing age-related ocular disorders along with other eye diseases such as cataract and night-blindness. Leutin present in the eye, when combined with the compounds present in bilberry, helps enhance vision. Another research conducted on bilberry has also suggested that its beneficial enzyme-stimulating activity protects the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. Its extracts stimulate the production of rhodopsin pigment which supports the eye to adapt to light changes.

Treats Diarrhea

Bilberry has been used to cure stomach disorders such as diarrhea, indigestion, and nausea. Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties help to tighten tissues and reduce the symptoms of diarrhea.

Anti-inflammatory Action

Due to the astringent action of tannins and pectin present in bilberry, it exerts a therapeutic effect on stomach inflammations. It also heals inflammation caused by the mucous membranes of the throat and mouth when applied topically. Anti-inflammatory properties of this fruit also assist in curing conditions like thrombosis and angina.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition in which the valves in leg veins that carry blood to the heart gets damaged. This results in itching, swelling, and pain in the leg. It sometimes also leads to skin ulcers. The anthocyanosides present in bilberry helps to strengthen the blood vessels and decrease the symptoms.

Neuroprotective Effects

Bilberry treats cognitive issues such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. The phenolic compounds present in the fruit alleviates these neurological issues.

Menstrual Cramps

Women have also reported its effects on lowering menstrual cramps. Bilberry extract is also effective in curing ulcers and inhibiting fibrocystic breast disease.

Skin Care

Bilberry supports and toughens the collagen structures, stalls bacterial growth and assists in detoxification of the body. It is also recommended by doctors prior to surgeries in order to reduce the associated bleeding later.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it a valuable multipurpose remedy. The rich source of anthocyanosides is useful water-soluble chemicals that possess radical scavenging qualities. They seek out for oxygen-free radicals produced during energy metabolism and neutralize their effects. This protective action prevents the occurrence of many problems caused as a consequence of oxidative stress.