BellyBytes.com

Bilberry is a relative of the blueberry, and its fruit is commonly used to make pies and jams. Bilberry grows in North America, Europe, and northern Asia.

Common Names:

1. European blueberry
2. Whortleberry
3. Huckleberry

• Bilberry has been used for nearly 1,000 years in traditional European medicine.
• Historically, bilberry fruit was used to treat diarrhea, scurvy, and other conditions.
• Today, the fruit is used to treat diarrhea, menstrual cramps, eye problems, varicose veins, venous insufficiency (poor blood flow to the heart), and other circulatory problems.
• Bilberry leaf is used for entirely different conditions, including diabetes.

The fruit of the bilberry plant can be eaten or made into extracts. Similarly, the leaves of the bilberry plant can be made into extracts or used to make teas. Bilberry plants have to be at least 3 to 4 years old before they bear fruit.

Bilberry Factoid: During World War II, British RAF pilots consumed bilberry jam prior to night flying, swearing it helped improve their night vision and prevented visual fatigue. Twenty years after the pilots swore by it, scientists began studying the popular berry outside the kitchen.

Some claim that bilberry fruit improves night vision, but clinical studies have not shown this to be true. There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry fruit or leaf for any other health conditions.

• Bilberry fruit is considered safe. However, high doses of bilberry leaf or leaf extract are considered unsafe; animal studies have shown high doses to be toxic.
• Tell your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including bilberry. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Bilberry Extract Plus. Contains 60 mg of standardized bilberry fruit extract as well as red grape skin extract and citrus bioflavonoid complex, which work synergistically to enhance the benefits of bilberry. Ingredients and manufacturing audited and approved by Dr. Kevin Passero.

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Disclaimer: The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as information only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.