What are the traditional and modern uses of bilberry. How does bilberry impact eye health, cardiovascular function, and inflammation. What are the potential side effects and safety considerations of bilberry consumption. What does current research say about bilberry’s effectiveness.

The History and Origins of Bilberry

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also known as European blueberry or whortleberry, is a small shrub native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Its dark berries closely resemble blueberries and have been used for medicinal purposes since medieval times. The name “bilberry” originates from the Danish word “bollebar,” meaning “dark berry.”

Historically, both the berries and leaves of the bilberry plant have been utilized for various health conditions. Some traditional uses include:

• Treating diarrhea
• Alleviating inflammation of the mouth
• Addressing urinary problems
• Managing diabetes
• Preventing scurvy due to high vitamin C content

Interestingly, during World War II, British pilots consumed bilberry jam in the belief that it would enhance their night vision capabilities.

Modern Applications and Potential Benefits of Bilberry

In contemporary times, bilberry has gained popularity as a dietary supplement, with proponents claiming various health benefits. Some of the conditions for which bilberry is promoted include:

• Improving night vision
• Preventing or treating cataracts
• Alleviating varicose veins
• Combating atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque in arteries)

The berries contain a high concentration of polyphenols called anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may offer health benefits. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting many of these claims is limited, and more research is needed to confirm potential benefits.

Bilberry and Eye Health

Can bilberry improve eye health and vision. While the connection between bilberry and improved night vision remains largely anecdotal, some recent studies have shown promising results in other areas of eye health. A Japanese study involving 88 office workers found that a bilberry extract helped alleviate eye fatigue. This suggests that bilberry may have potential benefits for individuals who spend long hours looking at screens or performing visually demanding tasks.

Bilberry and Oral Health

Does bilberry have any impact on oral health. A small clinical study involving 24 participants indicated that consuming bilberries may help reduce gum inflammation and bleeding. While these results are encouraging, it’s important to note that larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and establish bilberry as a reliable treatment for oral health issues.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Is bilberry safe for consumption. Generally, bilberry fruit is considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods or as an extract for periods of 6 months to a year. However, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Bilberry leaves may be unsafe when taken orally in high doses or for extended periods.
• The safety of bilberry use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is not well-established, although consuming amounts typically found in foods is considered safe.
• Bilberry may interact with certain medications, including the cancer drug erlotinib (Tarceva), antidiabetes drugs, and medications that slow blood clotting.

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before adding bilberry supplements to your regimen, especially if you’re taking any medications or have underlying health conditions.

Current Research and Scientific Evidence

What does current scientific research say about bilberry’s effectiveness. While bilberry has been used traditionally for various health conditions, there is limited high-quality scientific evidence to support many of its purported benefits. The majority of existing studies involve small numbers of participants, and more extensive research is needed to confirm preliminary findings.

Some recent studies have suggested potential beneficial effects of bilberry:

• A small study with 21 participants found that consuming bilberry juice for 5 days before and 2 days after a half-marathon may lead to small to moderate transient increases in muscle soreness and inflammation in recreationally trained runners.
• Research has shown that bilberries contain a high concentration of anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may have health benefits. However, more research is needed to fully understand the implications of these compounds in human health.

Dosage and Administration

How should bilberry be consumed for potential health benefits. As there is limited scientific consensus on the optimal dosage of bilberry for various health conditions, it’s best to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional or the instructions on commercial bilberry products. When consuming bilberry as a food, it can be enjoyed fresh, frozen, or in various culinary preparations.

For supplemental use, bilberry is available in various forms, including:

• Dried berries
• Powdered extracts
• Capsules
• Tablets
• Liquid extracts

It’s important to note that the concentration of active compounds can vary significantly between different products and preparations. Always choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources and consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate form and dosage for your individual needs.

Interactions with Medications and Other Supplements

Can bilberry interact with other medications or supplements. Yes, bilberry has the potential to interact with certain medications and supplements. Some notable interactions include:

1. Diabetes medications: Bilberry may enhance the effects of drugs used to lower blood sugar, potentially leading to hypoglycemia.
2. Blood-thinning medications: Bilberry may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
3. Erlotinib (Tarceva): Bilberry may interact with this cancer medication, potentially affecting its efficacy.

Additionally, bilberry may interact with other herbs or supplements that have blood-thinning properties or affect blood sugar levels. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Bilberry in Complementary and Alternative Medicine

How is bilberry used in complementary and alternative medicine. Bilberry has gained popularity in the realm of complementary and alternative medicine due to its potential health benefits. Some ways in which bilberry is utilized in these practices include:

• As a natural remedy for improving vision and eye health
• To support cardiovascular health and improve circulation
• As an antioxidant supplement to combat free radical damage
• To help manage blood sugar levels in conjunction with conventional treatments for diabetes
• As a potential anti-inflammatory agent for various conditions

While many of these uses are based on traditional knowledge and preliminary research, it’s important to approach them with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Complementary and alternative treatments should not replace conventional medical care but may be used alongside it when appropriate.

The Role of Anthocyanins in Bilberry’s Health Benefits

Why are anthocyanins in bilberry considered beneficial. Anthocyanins, the polyphenol compounds found in high concentrations in bilberries, have garnered significant scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. These compounds are responsible for the dark blue-purple color of bilberries and are believed to contribute to many of the fruit’s purported health effects.

Some potential benefits of anthocyanins include:

• Antioxidant properties: Anthocyanins may help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: These compounds may help reduce inflammation in various parts of the body.
• Cardiovascular support: Some studies suggest anthocyanins may help improve heart health by supporting healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Neuroprotective potential: Research indicates that anthocyanins may have protective effects on brain health and cognitive function.

While these potential benefits are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which anthocyanins work in the human body and to determine the optimal intake for health benefits.

Cultivating and Harvesting Bilberry

How is bilberry cultivated and harvested. Bilberry plants thrive in acidic, well-drained soils and prefer partial shade to full sun exposure. They are typically found in forest understories, heathlands, and mountainous areas. While wild bilberries are still harvested in many regions, commercial cultivation has increased to meet growing demand.

The cultivation process involves:

1. Soil preparation: Ensuring the soil is acidic (pH 4.5-5.5) and rich in organic matter.
2. Planting: Bilberry plants are usually propagated from cuttings or seedlings.
3. Maintenance: Regular pruning, watering, and fertilization are necessary for optimal growth.
4. Pest and disease management: Bilberry plants can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, requiring vigilant monitoring and appropriate treatment.

Harvesting typically occurs in late summer to early fall, depending on the region and climate. The berries are usually hand-picked to ensure quality and minimize damage to the delicate fruit. After harvesting, the berries are quickly processed or frozen to preserve their nutritional content and flavor.

Sustainable Harvesting Practices

Why is sustainable harvesting important for bilberry. As the demand for bilberry and its products increases, sustainable harvesting practices become crucial to protect wild populations and ensure the long-term availability of this valuable resource. Sustainable harvesting involves:

• Selective picking: Harvesting only ripe berries and leaving some for natural regeneration and wildlife.
• Rotation: Allowing harvested areas to recover before returning to them in subsequent seasons.
• Habitat preservation: Minimizing damage to surrounding vegetation and ecosystems during harvesting.
• Local engagement: Involving local communities in harvesting and conservation efforts.

By implementing these practices, we can help ensure that wild bilberry populations remain healthy and continue to provide both ecological and economic benefits for generations to come.

Bilberry in Culinary Applications

How is bilberry used in cooking and food preparation. While bilberry is often consumed as a supplement, it also has a place in culinary applications. The berries have a tart, slightly sweet flavor that lends itself well to various dishes and preparations. Some popular culinary uses of bilberry include:

• Fresh consumption: Eating the berries raw as a snack or added to cereals and salads.
• Jams and preserves: Making traditional bilberry jam or preserves for spreading on bread or using as a filling.
• Baked goods: Incorporating bilberries into pies, muffins, cakes, and other baked treats.
• Sauces and compotes: Creating savory or sweet sauces to accompany meats or desserts.
• Beverages: Using bilberries in smoothies, juices, or herbal teas.
• Dried fruit: Incorporating dried bilberries into trail mixes or granola.

When using bilberries in cooking, it’s important to note that they can stain hands and cooking utensils due to their high anthocyanin content. Additionally, their intense flavor means a little goes a long way in recipes.

Nutritional Profile of Bilberry

What nutrients does bilberry contain. Bilberries are not only flavorful but also packed with various nutrients that contribute to their potential health benefits. The nutritional profile of bilberries includes:

• Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and containing smaller amounts of vitamins A and E.
• Minerals: Provides manganese, potassium, and trace amounts of other essential minerals.
• Fiber: Contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which support digestive health.
• Antioxidants: High in anthocyanins and other polyphenols with antioxidant properties.
• Low calorie: Relatively low in calories, making them a nutrient-dense food choice.

This nutritional composition contributes to bilberry’s potential health benefits and makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. However, it’s important to note that the exact nutrient content can vary depending on growing conditions, ripeness, and processing methods.

Bilberry | NCCIH

Skip to main content© Steven Foster

Common Names: bilberry, European blueberry, whortleberry, huckleberry

Latin Names: Vaccinium myrtillus

Background

• The bilberry bush is native to northern areas of Europe and Asia, the northern United States, and Canada. Its dark berries resemble blueberries.
• Its name is derived from the Danish word bollebar, which means “dark berry.”
• Bilberry has been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages. The berries and leaves are the parts of the plant that are used. Historically, bilberry has been used for a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, inflammation of the mouth, urinary problems, and diabetes. It’s also been used traditionally to prevent scurvy, due to its high vitamin C content. During World War II, British pilots ate bilberry jam, thinking it would improve their night vision.
• Today, bilberry is promoted as a dietary supplement for night vision, cataracts, varicose veins, and other conditions such as atherosclerosis (in which plaque builds up in arteries).

How Much Do We Know?

• There are few high-quality clinical trials (studies in people) of bilberry supplements.

What Have We Learned?

• There’s little scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry for many health conditions.
• A few recent studies have suggested possible beneficial effects of bilberry. However, these studies involved small numbers of people. More research would be needed to confirm these findings.
  • Results from a small clinical study (24 people) suggest that consuming bilberries may reduce gum inflammation and bleeding.
  • Data from a Japanese study with 88 office workers suggest that a bilberry extract helped with eye fatigue.
  • Data from a small study with 21 people suggest that consuming bilberry juice for 5 days before and 2 days after a half-marathon may lead to small to moderate transient increases in muscle soreness and inflammation in recreationally trained runners.
• The berries have a high concentration of polyphenols called anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may have health benefits.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Bilberry fruit is considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods, or as an extract for 6 months to a year.
• Bilberry leaves may be unsafe when taken orally (by mouth) in high doses or for long periods of time.
• Little is known about whether it’s safe to use bilberry during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. (Consuming amounts typically found in foods is considered safe.)
• Bilberry may interact with a cancer drug called erlotinib (Tarceval), antidiabetes drugs, or medications that slow blood clotting. If you’re taking medicine, talk with your health care provider before taking bilberry supplements.

Keep in Mind

• Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information on NCCIH and complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners.

Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226

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PubMed®

A service of the National Library of Medicine, PubMed® contains publication information and (in most cases) brief summaries of articles from scientific and medical journals. For guidance from NCCIH on using PubMed, see How To Find Information About Complementary Health Approaches on PubMed.

Website: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

ODS seeks to strengthen knowledge and understanding of dietary supplements by evaluating scientific information, supporting research, sharing research results, and educating the public. Its resources include publications (such as Dietary Supplements: What You Need To Know) and fact sheets on a variety of specific supplement ingredients and products (such as vitamin D and multivitamin/mineral supplements).

Website: https://ods.od.nih.gov

Email: [email protected] (link sends email)

Key References

• Bilberry. Natural Medicines website. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com on October 14, 2019. [Database subscription].
• Bilberry. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda, MD: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Accessed at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548250/ on October 29. 2019.
• Lynn A, Garner S, Nelson N, et al. Effect of bilberry juice on indices of muscle damage and inflammation in runners competing a half-marathon: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2018;15:22.
• Ozawa Y, Kawashima M, Inoue S, et al. Bilberry extract supplementation for preventing eye fatigue in video display terminal workers. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging. 2015;19(5):548-554.
• Tjelle TE, Holtung L, Bøhn SK, et al. Polyphenol-rich juices reduce blood pressure measures in a randomized controlled trial in high normal and hypertensive volunteers. British Journal of Nutrition. 2015;114(7):1054-1063.
• Widén C, Coleman M, Critén M, et al. Consumption of bilberries controls gingival inflammation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2015;16(5):10,665-10,673.
• Yamaura K, Shimada M, Ueno K. Anthocyanins from bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) alleviate pruritus in a mouse model of chronic allergic contact dermatitis. Pharmacognosy Research. 2011;3(3):173-177.

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.

NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.

Last Updated: August 2020

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a plant that produces berries similar to the American blueberry. The dried fruit and leaves are used as medicine.

Bilberry contains chemicals called tannins. They might help reduce swelling. The chemicals in bilberry leaves might also help to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improve circulation in people with diabetes.

People use bilberry for night vision, poor circulation that can cause the legs to swell, high blood pressure, and many other conditions. But there is no good scientific evidence to support any of these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Ineffective for

• Ability to see in low-light conditions. Taking bilberry by mouth doesn’t improve night vision in healthy people. It isn’t clear if bilberry is helpful in people with night blindness.

There is interest in using bilberry for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Eating dried, ripe bilberry fruit in typical food amounts is likely safe for most people. Bilberry fruit extracts are possibly safe when taken in doses up to 160 mg daily for up to 6 months. But bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Eating dried, ripe bilberry fruit in typical food amounts is likely safe for most people. Bilberry fruit extracts are possibly safe when taken in doses up to 160 mg daily for up to 6 months. But bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Bilberry fruit is likely safe when consumed in small amounts as a food. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use bilberry in the higher doses found in medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick with food amounts.

Surgery: Bilberry might affect blood sugar levels. This could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking bilberry at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Bilberry might lower blood sugar levels. Taking bilberry along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

• Bilberry might slow blood clotting. Taking bilberry along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Bilberry might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Dosing

Bilberry fruit has most often been used by adults in doses of 160-240 mg by mouth daily for up to 6 months. Bilberry extracts are usually standardized to contain a certain amount of chemicals called anthocyanins. Products providing 120-160 mg of these chemicals daily have been used for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Blueberries – useful properties and calorie content, use and preparation, benefits and harms

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Description

Bilberry is a low (only 10–50 cm) shrub of the family cowberry. The leaves are alternate, ovate, leathery, falling in the winter. Leaves and petioles have deep grooves through which rainwater rolls down to the root. The flowers are greenish-white, sitting one at a time, tilted down – this protects them from dampness. Blueberries are black or bluish-black due to the waxy coating of the berries. The flesh is purple, with many seeds. Blueberries taste sweet.

Photo by Sviatoslav Huzii on Unsplash. “world stocks” of blueberries are located on the territory of our country. This plant is a northern resident, preferring wet and swampy soils. Blueberries usually grow in coniferous-deciduous forests, forming entire plantations. In a fruitful year, up to a ton of berries per hectare can be harvested from a good blueberry. Blueberries are widely distributed in the European part of Russia, in Siberia and Karelia.

Bilberry is also a good honey plant, blueberry honey is fragrant, transparent, with a reddish tinge and a peculiar taste.

Application

Blueberries are used to make jams, jams, marmalade, fillings for delicious pies, dumplings, used as a decoration for cakes, ice cream, yoghurts, for coloring pale compotes. Blueberries are dried, frozen, raw jam is prepared (berries grated with sugar, preserving the maximum amount of vitamins). All kinds of desserts, casseroles, liqueurs are prepared from blueberries. But in season it is necessary to eat this healthy berry fresh.

Composition and properties

Vitamins A, C and PP, vitamins of group B were found in blueberries. Berries contain organic acids, micro and macro elements, tannins, essential oils and alcohols, phytoncides.

Blueberry leaves also contain many useful biologically active substances and are often used in folk medicine.

The most famous property of blueberries is the ability to significantly improve eyesight. Bilberry accelerates retinal renewal, expands the field of view, enhances its sharpness, reduces eye fatigue, especially when working at a computer, at dusk, at night and under artificial lighting.

Blueberry preparations have vasoconstrictive and antibacterial properties, heal the intestines. Tea with the addition of blueberry juice and pure juice have a diuretic effect, they are used for sand in the kidneys and for bedwetting.

Water infusions of blueberries are used for sore throats, catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, stomatitis. Fresh berries, as well as jelly from them, are useful for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, preventing putrefactive and fermentation processes in the intestines.

Decoctions and infusions of the leaves are used to treat wounds and rinse the mouth. The leaves contain neomertillin, which lowers blood sugar, which is useful for diabetics to know.

Contraindications

People suffering from oxilaturia (a type of urolithiasis) should not consume fresh berries and blueberry juice.

In case of dysfunction of the duodenum, blueberries should not be abused either.

Calories and nutritional value of blueberries

Blueberry calories – 44 kcal.

Nutritional value of blueberries: proteins – 1.1 g, fats – 0.6 g, carbohydrates – 7.6 g

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Blueberries – composition and useful properties. Health Benefits of Blueberries

July is the peak of the blueberry season. Berry hunters go to the forests alone and with whole families, armed with buckets, “harvesters” and remarkable patience. However, diligence pays off handsomely.

Blueberries are an ideal raw material for home-made preparations for the winter and a source of income, because the producers are not behind the price. But most importantly, the berry has unique properties that bring exceptional health benefits. However, let’s talk about everything in order.

What blueberries are rich in

If we talk about useful components of blueberries, it is easier to list what is not in them. Having “decomposed” the berry into its components, if desired, you can study the periodic table. There is iron, manganese, copper, potassium, and sulfur with phosphorus … In addition, blueberries are an excellent source of vitamins C, PP and B group. , magnesium, manganese, vitamin C and carotene.

Let’s not forget about the antioxidants that are found in large quantities in blueberries. And also about the essential organic acids (citric, quinic, oxalic, malic, lactic) and tannins that make up the berry. Each of the components of blueberries has its own role in the beneficial effects on human health.

There are at least 100 types of blueberries in the world. And not all of them are a well-known undersized shrub with medium-sized dark blue berries.

For example, Caucasian blueberries grow taller than human height. And the height of the tree-like blueberry even reaches the level of a three-story house. Japanese blueberries have bright red berries, while Indian blueberries are white.

Benefits of blueberries for eyesight

Perhaps the most well-known fact about the healing properties of blueberries is their ability to positively affect vision.

It has been proven that the substances that make up the wild berry stimulate the blood circulation of the retina and, accordingly, improve vigilance.

An interesting fact: during the Great Patriotic War, Soviet pilots were required to drink blueberry jelly before night flights.

Although blueberries are traditionally the No. 1 food for sharp vision, tomatoes, yellow and red bell peppers, and green vegetables have the same properties.

The benefits of blueberries for the heart and blood vessels

Regular consumption of blueberries is an effective way to prevent myocardial infarction.

Of course, relying only on the berry is too reckless, if at the same time you lead a lifestyle that is far from healthy. But if negative factors are minimized and blueberries are included in the diet, this will become a powerful preventive tool against diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

This is primarily due to the potassium, folic acid and phytochemical components contained in blueberries, which have a hypotonic effect (that is, they can lower blood pressure) and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. As well as anticoagulants, which reduce blood clotting and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of East Anglia conducted a study of more than 93,000 women aged 25 to 42. Regular consumption of blueberries has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack by 32%.

Benefits of blueberries for the stomach and figure

In folk medicine, blueberries are especially valued as a sure remedy for stomach problems.

Useful fibers that a small berry contains in abundance, contribute to the normalization of digestion, have a beneficial effect on metabolic processes, and have a disinfectant effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, blueberries are equally effective in coping with any intestinal disorders: fresh berries help with constipation, dried berries help with diarrhea.

But for people who are struggling with excess weight, blueberries are a real lifesaver. Berry pectins perfectly cleanse the intestines and remove metabolic products from the body, pantothenic acid improves metabolism. Blueberries have a low calorie content and can claim the title of a unique dietary product.

The energy value of 100 g of blueberries is only 40 kcal. But in the harvest of berries there is a whole cocktail of useful substances. Blueberries are a natural alternative to synthetic vitamin and mineral complexes.

Blueberries are the guarantee of eternal youth

One of the main advantages of blueberries is anthocyanins.

This plant substance belongs to the group of flavonoids. The berry owes its rich blue color to it. But for humans, the benefits of anthocyanin lies in its powerful antioxidant effect. In simple terms, it provides blueberries with the ability to remove toxins from the body, which accelerate the aging process. The conclusion suggests itself: more blueberries – longer youth.

This fact has been scientifically confirmed by scientists at the Boston University Food Research Center. After testing, the researchers were pleasantly surprised by the results: the berry, unpretentious to growing conditions, is able to start processes that significantly slow down the aging of the body and have a rejuvenating effect. The head of research, by the way, has become an avid blueberry drinker himself and regularly eats blueberries for breakfast.

It is not for nothing that blueberries are often called rejuvenating berries. Her passionate admirers are distinguished by clear skin, shiny hair and invariably cheerful mood. And why wouldn’t they shine!

Regularly including fresh blueberries or dishes from them in the menu, they provide a regular supply of vitamin C, which is “tied” to the production and action of collagen, which is responsible for the absence of wrinkles and the general condition of the skin.

But the influence of wild berries on the body is not limited to external rejuvenating effect.

Scientists have shown that regular consumption of blueberries slows down the natural decline in cognitive ability in the elderly, and also improves short-term memory.

Blueberries are a cure for everything

By right, blueberries can be called not only a storehouse of nutrients useful for the body, but also a natural medicine. The fingers of both hands are not enough to list the healing properties of the berry.

The substances included in its composition have anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, immunostimulating effects. It is nature’s natural antiseptic and antibiotic.

Moreover, not only berries, but also leaves, young shoots of the plant have the same healing properties.

Blueberries are dried, cured and frozen as medicine.

Infusions and decoctions are prepared from the leaves, which are then drunk or used for compresses and lotions.