Bilberry

(Vaccinium myrtillus L.)

This herb is also known as Blueberry, bogberry or Myrtilus niger. Fruits and leaves of this plant are used as medicine.

Bilberry has traditionally been used in treatment of diarrhea, hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal problems, urinary diseases and mouth infections.  It is also known to be good for other health conditions such as gout, rheumatism, burns, skin infections and eye inflammation.

Its decoction is used to treat diarrhea. Extract of Bilberry leave has been proved to be effective against several species of bacteria. The berries are used to treat many ophthalmic issues including problems related to night vision. For this purpose its daily dose may be accompanied by Vitamin B.

Bilberry is relatively safe with no serious side effects even when used for prolonged period. Native Americans used Bilberry as food and medicine since long time. Herbalists prepare cough syrup from Bilberry by mixing it with other herbs and honey.  Many of its preparations are used as general body tonic. It contains antioxidants and is believed to improve memory and the immune system. Bilberry is a good source of Vitamin C.

Several commercial facial masks and body scrubs are available in pharmacies and supermarkets which are made of bilberry. It is said to have good effect on the skin. As facial mask it reduces the excess oil and its prolonged use on dry skin may not be very good.  Much has been written about Bilberry as weight reducing herb. It is believed to reduce excessive cholesterol in the body. This evidence was backed by results of laboratory procedures performed on rats.