Bilberry Herb Information

The bilberry herb is a nutritious herb that has been used for it's medicinal properties since the 16th century. This herb has antioxidant properties and is loaded with Vitamin a, Vitamin C and contains flavinoids and anthocynanin. It is best known for it's role in enhancing night vision, but our bilberry information lists many more medicinal uses.

The bilberry herb grows on a shrub like plant commonly found in damp woody environments. They are found in Europe, Asia and North America and there are several species. It prefers to grow in shady areas with slightly acidic soil

The medicinal uses of the bilberry herb are many. Current bilberry information, shows it as being very good for the eyes. The antioxidant properties help protect the eyes from damage of free radicals and the anthocyanin helps protect the blood vessels in the eyes as well. It has long been used to help in the treatment of all eye diseases and, in fact, was eaten as a jam by WWII British Royal Air Force Pilots and shown to improve their night vision during missions.

Other uses of the bilberry herb include combining it with honey as a remedy for diarrhea, helping to prevent heart disease by reducing artery plaque, lowering blood pressure and aiding the body in the synthesis of collagen and thus helping to protect the veings, artery walls.

Current bilberry information attributes many of it's healing properties to the anthocyanidins which it contains. These phytochemicals can provide 10 times the antioxidant protection of Vitamin C and help to increase blood to the nervous system, lower blood pressure and inhibit blood clot formation. The bilberry herb has also been found to enhance collagen in the body and has anti bacterial, anti inflammatory, anti aging and anti carcinogenic properties.

Bilberry can be taken as a tea, powder or pill. It is preferred to take the bilberry herb in small but frequent doses along with green, yellow and orange vegetables or beta carotene. Of course, the berries can be used in jams and jellies or eaten raw on cereal or as a snack by itself. There are no known side effects from this herb, but it is wise to consult your physician before taking any herbal supplements.

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