Bilberry Herb
The name Bilberry is used for many species of a particular fruit bearing shrub and is also called European Blueberry, Black Huckleberry and Mountain Blueberry as well as many other names. As the names suggests the Bilberry is closely related to American Blueberry and Huckleberry; however, Bilberry generally produces fruit singularly instead of in bunches on the bush.
The fruit of the Bilberry is tasty and used in jams, pies, juices and tarts and the berry can be distinguished from the Blueberry by the interior color of the berry. While the Blueberry’s inner flesh is a light greenish color the Bilberry is red or purple.
Bilberry Tea
A tea can be made from Bilberry using the berries by boiling 3 tablespoons of dried Bilberries in a quart of water for 10 minutes.
A tea can be made from Bilberry leaves by steeping 1 – 2 teaspoons of dried Bilberry leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes.
Bilberry Uses & Herbal Remedies
The fruit of the Bilberry can be eaten or made into pies, jellies, juices or other treats that would be made with other related berries. Bilberries are rich in antioxidants.
The fruit has been used to treat night blindness, macular degeneration and other sight complaints by eating the berry on a regular basis. The dried fruit can be used to treat indigestion and diarrhea.
Bilberry leaf tea has been used to reduce free radicals in the blood and aid in blood circulations as well as anti-ageing.
Bilberry Folklore
It is believed that placing Bilberry in the pocket will bring truth to you and you will be enabled to discern the truth in what others say.
Bilberry Herb Cautions
Due to Bilberry’s ability to lower blood sugar, the insulin dependant diabetic should consult with their health care provider before drinking Bilberry teas.
There are no known side effects when using bilberry in controlled doseages provided by a health care practioner. Use common sense when using any herbal program.
