Bilberries, also known as European wild blueberries, are part of the same plant family as blueberries but are usually smaller and darker than blueberries, appearing to be almost black with a hint of blue. They are dark inside too, whereas blueberries have a pale green flesh. Bilberries are more intensely flavored than blueberries, but they are softer and juicier than blueberries. Never mind their differences...if you like blueberries, you will love bilberries!
History & Folklore
Because bilberries are similar to blueberries, it's no wonder they were originally prized for their sweet, juicy fruit. It wasn't until World War II that bilberry gained attention as a medicine. During World War II, pilots discovered that their vision improved after consuming bilberry jam -- especially their night vision! Since then research has shown that bilberries help the eyes adjust to the dark and stimulate part of the retina.
Habitat & Cultivation
Imagine a European cottage tucked away on a country hillside; that is where you can find a bilberry bush. In all seriousness, bilberry thrives in moist undergrowth on moors, and heathland throughout temperate regions in the northern hemisphere, such as: Asia, Europe, and North America. Bilberry has been widely cultivated around the world. The leaves of bilberry are collected in summer, while the fruit is collected in late-summer or early-autumn.
Uses
Digestive Problems used as a mild laxative and to relieve diarrhea in children and adults
Circulatory Disorders bilberry can improve capillary function and heal inflammation; good for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, bruising, and all conditions impairing blood flow to the eyes
Antioxidant fruit is used to protect against tissue damage and promote tissue healing
Antiseptic bilberry leaves can treat urinary infections even cystitis
Antidiabetic Using the leaves and fruit bilberry leaves and fruit work as an antidiabetic especially in pre-diabetic stages
Weight Loss growing evidence that bilberry can aid weight loss
Parts used
Leaves make a useful urinary antiseptic and astringent; good for urinary tract problems
Berries have a strong healing effect on capillaries, especially those within the eye
Key Actions
Circulatory Tonic
Antioxidant
Anti-Inflammatory
Astringent
Urinary Antiseptic
Constituents
Tannins
Proanthocyanins
Flavanoids
Fruit Acids
Phenolic Acids
Pectin
Vitamin B and C
Carotene
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 147.
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