Bilberry has a long medicinal history in Europe. It has been
used to treat anything from kidney stones to Typhoid fever. During World War 2
British pilots noted that Bilberry jam before a flight dramatically improved
night vision. Modern research now supports these claims.
Bilberry contains anthocyanosides which are potent
antioxidants which strengthen blood vessels and capillary walls, improve red
blood cells, stabilize collagen tissues such as tendons, ligaments and
cartilage and has cholesterol lowering effects. They also increase retinal
pigments that allow the eye to tolerate light. In addition, it helps to
maintain the flexibility of red blood cells, allowing them to pass through the
capillaries and supply oxygen. The herb has been shown to be a vasodilator that
opens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Since the eyes have a high
concentration of capillaries, bilberry may be particularly helpful in improving
eyesight. The herb has been shown to improve night vision, slow macular
degeneration, prevent cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. Scientific studies
have shown improvement in the eyesight, circulation, angina, stroke and
atherosclerosis. It is also used to improve varicose veins and has anti-aging
effects on collagen structures.
Individuals with hardening of the arteries, diabetes, high
blood pressure or other conditions that increase the likelihood of damage to
the small blood vessels in the eyes are more likely to have serious vision
problems as a result of blood vessel damage. Note that bilberry is taken by
mouth to treat eye problems. It is not used as an eye drop.
Oral bilberry preparations are also used to prevent and
treat a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency, which occurs when
valves in the veins that carry blood back to the heart are weak or damaged.
Blood may collect in the veins of the legs and lead to
varicose veins, spider veins, or sores on the legs. More serious results can
include blood clots in the legs. Because bilberry may strengthen the walls of
all blood vessels in the body. It may also relieve hemorrhoids.
In the past, dried bilberries have been used to treat
diarrhea because the tannins it contains (1.5% and as much as 10%) act as an
astringent to the gastrointestinal tract. An astringent shrinks and tightens
the top layers of skin or mucous membranes thereby reducing secretions,
relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. Tea brewed from dried
bilberry fruits has also been used to soothe a sore throat or sore mouth
tissue.
In folk medicine, bilberry leaf has been used to treat a
number of conditions including diabetes. Limited evidence from a few animal
studies shows that it may have a decreasing effect on blood sugar.
Additionally, in at least one study, an extract of bilberry leaves may also
have lowered cholesterol levels in laboratory animals. Other laboratory and
animal studies have tested potential anticancer effects of bilberry. In a
laboratory study, bilberry stopped the growth of both leukemic and colon cancer
cells. While preliminary results suggest that anthocyanosides obtained from
bilberries may also block the effects of an enzyme and other chemicals that
promote tumor growth, much more study is needed. To date, no human clinical
studies have confirmed any of these results from bilberry.
Recent research showed that Bilberry extract has promising
anti-ulcer activity, both preventive and curative. It also has shown
anti-cancer properties in animal experiments. When administered to diabetes
patients, Bilberry normalised capillary collagen thickness and blood sugar
levels in humans and animals.
Bilberry Tea In depth research has proved that regular
consumption of Bilberry tea can improve vision by strengthening the retina and
blood vessels of the walls in the eyes. Another benefit of Bilberry tea is that
it reduces blood sugar levels and cholesterol, which in turn helps diabetics
and reduces the risk of a heart attack for those with heart conditions.
Bilberry Herb Notes / Side Effects
Latin Names
Vaccinium myrtillus
Common Names
Airelle, Dyeberry, European Blueberry, Huckleberry, Vaccinium myrtillus, Whortleberry, Wineberry
Suggested Properties
Antioxidant. Supports normal formation of connective tissue and strengthen capillaries in the body. Anthocyanosides may also improve capillary and venous blood flow. Anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, Antihistamine.
Uses
Kills or inhibits the growth of funguses, yeasts, and bacteria. It also kills protozoans such as Trichomonas vaginalis. Prevents capillary fragility and Improves vision.
Atherosclerosis, Bruising, Cataracts, Circulation, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Macular degeneration, Night blindness, Retinopathy, Varicose veins.
Indicated for
Has the potential for the prevention of thrombosis and may reverse attacks of angina from results of animal studies. Was found to prevent atherosclerosis in cholesterol loaded animals. Pigmentary retinitis. Hemorrhoids.
