Blueberry (bilberry) – medicinal properties and indications. Tasty fruit an ally of healthy eyesight

Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a small shrub whose fruits are famous for their delicious taste. Blueberry has also gained recognition for its unique medicinal properties. The small, dark purple fruits of blueberries have been used in natural medicine for centuries. They are excellent for eye health, help regulate blood sugar levels, and exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Regular consumption of blueberry has a positive effect on the functions of the digestive and urinary systems and strengthens immunity. Being one of the tastiest fruits in the world, blueberries are also one of the most valuable fruits for our health.

Blueberry and bilberry – are they the same?

Blueberry and bilberry are the names of the same fruit. It is also known by many other regional terms, such as bilberry, forest berry, blueberry, modra berry, blueberry, blueberry, blueberry, blueberry, blueberry, blueberry.

However, blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) should not be confused with bilberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea). These fruits, although highly valued in dietetics and phytotherapy, show differences in taste, color and nutritional and medicinal properties.

Blueberries are characterized by their dark blue color and sweet, slightly tart taste, while lingonberries have an intense red color and a more sour taste. Their chemical composition differs in terms of vitamin, mineral and antioxidant content, which translates into a variety of health benefits from their consumption.

Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) – morphology.

Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) is a shrub that reaches a height of 15 to 60 cm. The stem is underground, angular and has the form of a long and heavily branched rhizome. Aboveground shoots grow from the stem. The leaves are egg-shaped, small, light green, with finely sawn edges. In autumn, the leaves of the blueberry turn red.

Flowers are single, white-pink, growing on stalks in the corners of the leaves. Fruits are berries with a diameter of 0.5 cm to 1 cm. At first they are greenish, then red, and when they ripen, they turn dark blue or black. A bluish t arnish on the fruit is also characteristic of this plant.

Origin and occurrence of blueberries

Blueberry naturally occurs in the cooler regions of central and northern Europe, Asia and North America. In Poland it is widespread, especially in mountainous areas and lowlands. It prefers acidic and moist environments. It grows mainly on calcium-free soils.

It can be found in coniferous and mixed forests, as well as on heathlands and peat bogs. Blueberry does well in nutrient-poor sites, making it a hardy and versatile plant. It finds the best conditions for growth in shady places where the soil is well-drained, but at the same time constantly moist.

In Poland, blueberry can often be found in the Tuchola Forest, the Bialowieza Forest, the Sudetes and the Carpathians, where it forms extensive forest undergrowth. Thanks to its ability to adapt to different conditions, blueberry is a valuable component of many forest ecosystems.

Blueberry – composition

Modern research confirms the beneficial effects of blueberries on the body, making them one of the most valuable fruits in our diet. The blueberry contains many valuable nutrients, with the most important ones present in very large quantities.

Particularly noteworthy is the high content of anthocyanins in bilberry (about 500 mg per 100 g of fruit). These are compounds from the flavonoid group that have strong antioxidant and anti-aging properties.

In addition to anthocyanins, blueberries are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Other noteworthy active substances contained in blueberries are phenolic acids, thanks to which blueberries inhibit the oxidation of LDL lipoproteins and protect the cardiovascular system. And thanks to the content of tannins, the fruit exhibits antimicrobial activity.

Valuable for our health active components of blueberries are:

• anthocyanins (including cyanidins, peonidins, malvidins, delphinidins),
• carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin),
• phenolic acids,
• ursolic acid,
• vitamins (C, A, B vitamins),
• minerals (magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium),
• tannins,
• flavonols,
• pectin,
• glycosides,
• iridoids,
• catechins.

Blueberry (bilberry) – medicinal properties.

Frequent consumption of blueberries is extremely beneficial to health. The medicinal effects of these fruits are comprehensive and cover many aspects of the body’s functioning, from supporting the immune system to improving the function of the digestive system.

Blueberry is particularly valued for improving digestion and regulating the bowel cycle. It exhibits a relaxing effect on constipation, but can also effectively curb diarrhea, making it a versatile remedy for gastrointestinal problems. In addition, thanks to its wealth of antioxidants, it helps protect the body from oxidative stress and related diseases.

Blueberry properties:

• vision enhancing,
• antimicrobial,
• anti-diarrheal,
• astringent,
• diuretic,
• anti-inflammatory,
• strengthening blood vessels,
• anti-rheumatic,
• antiviral,
• supporting heart health,
• regulating blood sugar levels,
• strengthening the immune system,
• anti-aging,
• improving the functioning of the digestive system.

Blueberry for eyes – how does it work and thanks to what active ingredients does it protect eyesight?

Blueberry has been used for many centuries as a natural remedy for eye health. Its positive effect on vision is due primarily to its high content of anthocyanins and carotenoids, which strengthen blood vessels and improve microcirculation in the eye.

Regular consumption of blueberries contributes to lowering intraocular pressure, which is important in the prevention of glaucoma. Moreover, the anthocyanins in blueberries promote the regeneration of rhodopsin, the pigment responsible for night vision, which translates into better visual acuity in low light.

Blueberry is also effective in protecting against the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy, a condition often seen in diabetics that leads to damage in the blood vessels of the retina and deterioration of vision.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, blueberries help prevent eye strokes, which can cause permanent damage to the retina. As a powerful antioxidant, blueberry also counteracts macular degeneration and cataracts. In addition, blueberry improves blood circulation in the iris area of the eye.

Blueberry’s active ingredients that support eye health:

• anthocyanins,
• vitamin C,
• vitamin E,
• carotenoids,
• flavonoids,
• phenolic acids,
• resveratrol,
• zinc,
• selenium,
• manganese.

Blueberry extract, along with many other ingredients that favorably affect the visual apparatus and quality of vision, can be found in Eyevita Plus.

Bilberry for blood glucose regulation

Bilberry helps regulate blood sugar levels. The anthocyanins it contains improve the sensitivity of cells to insulin, which allows the body to better utilize glucose. This makes blood sugar levels more stable, which is crucial for people with insulin resistance or diabetes.

In addition, blueberries support the regeneration of pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production, which can contribute to better blood sugar control. The fiber present in blueberries slows down the absorption of sugars from the gastrointestinal tract, which helps prevent sudden spikes in sugar levels after meals. Thanks to these properties, regular consumption of blueberries can be an effective part of a diet to help control diabetes and metabolic health.

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Blueberry as an antioxidant and plant-based anti-inflammatory agent

Thanks to its wealth of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, blueberry supports the immune system, protects against diseases of civilization and supports the body’s regenerative processes.

The anthocyanins, flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C contained in it are powerful antioxidants, protecting cells from damage and mutations caused by free oxygen radicals. With its high concentration of antioxidant substances, blueberries also inhibit the body’s aging processes, reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Regular consumption of this fruit can also improve skin elasticity, faster resolution of inflammation and improve the quality of vision.

Blueberries to improve cardiovascular function

Bilberry plays an important role in improving cardiovascular function. Thanks to the high content of anthocyanins and flavonoids, the walls of blood vessels become more flexible, tight and resistant to damage. Blueberry also inhibits platelet aggregation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots and improving blood flow. In addition, its regular consumption contributes to lowering cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Thanks to anthocyanins and other substances with antioxidant properties, blueberry helps normalize blood pressure, supports the work of the heart and has a beneficial effect on the condition of coronary vessels, protecting us from heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.

Blueberry for diarrhea

Bilberry is an effective natural remedy for diarrhea due to its antibacterial and astringent properties. The tannins and pectin contained in it help inhibit the growth of pathogens in the intestines, while at the same time showing a constipating effect and strengthening the walls of the digestive tract.

In case of diarrhea, both decoctions of dried blueberry fruits and fresh blueberry fruits can be helpful. They alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea and help regulate digestion.

A decoction of dried blueberries has a strong astringent effect and reduces excessive watery stools. Fresh blueberries provide large amounts of fiber that regulates intestinal function, as well as tanninswhich regenerate the intestinal mucosa and make less water penetrate the intestines, so the stool is more compact.

To prepare a decoction of dried blueberries, pour 2 tablespoons of dried fruits over 1 cup of water, and then boil for a few minutes over low heat. The decoction prepared in this way should be consumed immediately after preparation. Drink, as needed, from 2 to several times a day.

Bilberry – indications

Bilberry is valued in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Consumption of its fruits and use of preparations with blueberry extracts can also contribute to the overall improvement of immunity and strengthening of vital powers.

Indications for consuming blueberries:

• insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes,
• high cholesterol,
• prevention of heart disease,
• prevention of atherosclerosis,
• weakened immune system,
• increased risk of diseases of civilization,
• digestive problems, including diarrhea and constipation,
• vision problems, including visual fatigue, dry eye, decreased vision and diabetic retinopathy,
• cancer prevention,
• prevention of bacterial infections,
• strengthening blood vessels.

Blueberry – use in the kitchen. How to consume fresh blueberries?

Fresh blueberries can be eaten raw as a healthy snack, as well as added to yogurts, oatmeal, fruit salads and dinner dishes such as dumplings and pancakes. They are also great as an ingredient in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, cakes, cookies, muffins, omelets, ice cream and desserts.

Blueberry as a herbal resource – how to prepare a blueberry infusion?

An infusionof blueberry leaves is extremely helpful in cases of diarrhea, bloating, stomach irritation, abdominal cramps, intestinal catarrh, among others. It is also a simple and effective way to support the cardiovascular system and carbohydrate metabolism in the body.

To prepare it, pour 1-2 tablespoons of dried blueberry leaves in boiling water, cover and steep for 10-15 minutes. Then strain it. Drink 1-2 times a day.

Preparations containing bilberry

Extracts of bilberry fruit are included in many health-promoting preparations. Among other things, they are used in dietary supplements to support eyesight, improve cardiovascular function, regulate blood sugar levels, as well as in teas that support urinary tract health and teas for good digestion.

Thanks to blueberry’s wealth of active ingredients, these products can be very helpful, especially with regular, long-term use.

Bilberry – contraindications.

Preparations and decoctions with blueberry are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women (due to the lack of studies confirming their safety). People with food allergies should also exercise caution.

The use of bilberry in large quantities is also not advisable for people sensitive to salicylates. People taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before starting blueberry supplementation.

Bilberry – drug interactions, side effects.

Bilberry may interact with anticoagulants, exacerbating their effects. The use of bilberry in large quantities can lead to stomach problems, such as diarrhea. It’s always a good idea to consult a doctor before starting supplementation, especially when taking medications regularly.

Blueberry – cultivation

Blueberry requires acidic, well-drained soil with a pH of 4-5.5. The plant prefers partially shaded, waterlogged or moist sites. Regular watering is very important, especially during periods of drought. Blueberry is resistant to low temperatures, which makes it suitable for cultivation in temperate climates.

Sources:

• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bilberry-benefits
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-healthy-berries
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37836403/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32183662/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37570789/