Bilberry

Vaccinium myrtillus en V. vitis-idaea

Rich in anthocyanins. Dried berries are an old remedy for diarrhoea. NCCIH reports there is not enough evidence for eye, blood-vessel or other claims.

Safety notes

Berries as food are safe. High-dose extracts may interact with blood thinners. The leaf is not suitable for long-term use.

Preparation

Berries fresh or dried; leaves formerly as tea. No dosage is given here.

Use in traditions

A well-known story holds that British pilots in the Second World War ate bilberry jam for better night vision; research has not confirmed it. Ody notes its use in Scandinavia and Scotland.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Herbal medicine worldwide

Attributed effects

Astringent, lowers blood sugar, tonic, antiseptic, against vomiting; some species diuretic.

Preparation and amount

Unsweetened bilberry juice 10 ml for diarrhoea, diluted as a mouthwash, with witch hazel water as a lotion for sunburn; powder for babies (150 mg per kg); plenty of fresh berries with sugar and milk for constipation; decoction for chronic diarrhoea; leaf tea alongside diet for type 2 diabetes (with goat's rue); mouthwash.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Europe →