A shrubby perennial that grows in meadows and woods. It produces black berries that contain many small brownish-red seeds.

Bilberries are basically the European version of the American blueberry. Bilberries are grown in Europe, Canada and the U.S. and extracts of the ripe berry are known to contain flavonoid pigments known as anthocyanins - which act as powerful antioxidants. For you history buffs, some of the health effects of eating bilberries (to promote good vision) came to light during World War II when English bomber pilots reported an increase in their night vision after eating bilberry jam. Billberry extracts are now promoted for a number of vision and vein health effects such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Commercial supplements are typically standardized to at least 25% anthocyanosides.

Bilberries are a rich source of anthocyanosides, compounds which possess potent antioxidant properties which can protect capillaries from free radical damage. Because capillary damage is a primary factor in a number of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, bilberry extracts are often promoted as a way to protect capillaries from damage. Anthocyanosides may also promote the formation of connective tissue through their protective effects on collagen synthesis and repair and, thus, may also improve vascular circulation.

A number of venous disorders have been relieved with bilberry extracts, showing anti-inflammatory benefits and reduction in hemorrhoidal symptoms. Improved visual acuity has been noted in anecdotal reports of night vision (bomber pilot story) and diabetic retinopathy. A 20% reduction in capillary lesions was noted in one study following daily intake of 600 mg of bilberry extract for 6 months.

Possibly Effective for: Lesions in the eye (retina) in people with diabetes or high blood pressure.

Health Benefits and use of Billberry:

• Herbal relief for varicose veins
• Herbal remedy for diarrhea
• Herbal antidote for peptic ulcers
• Herbal support for eye health: fights glaucoma, improves night vision
• Stimulates re-growth and reproduction of collagen.
• Stabilizes capillary membranes
• Powerul Antioxidant
• Increases prostaglandin E