Bilberry Herbs

Every plant on the face of the earth has a use and a purpose. One plant that has quite a few uses is the bilberry plant, which has been used for traditional medicine in Europe for almost 1,000 years. Being a relative of the blueberry, the bilberry is also edible. It thrives in North America, Europe and northern Asia. Always check with your doctor before taking bilberry.

Herb Properties

• The main ingredients that can be found in the bilberry plant are catechol tannins and proanthocyanidins. Anthocyanins, flavonoids, iridoids glycosides and phenolic acids are also present in the herb. Basically, the use of the herb reduces levels of blood lipids and glucose as well as improving the permeability of capillaries and the healing of wounds.

Bilberry Uses

• Among the many uses of the bilberry herb, it has been used to treat glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, poor circulation, varicose veins, poor night vision, muscular degeneration, diarrhea, cramps and hemorrhoids. To treat illnesses, it comes in the form of liquid capsules, tincture, fluid extract and dried roots, leaves and berries.

Side Effects

• Bilberry fruit is considered safe to eat; however, the University of Maryland Medical Center website states that bilberry leaf and extract should not be taken in large quantities or over a long period of time because the tannins can cause severe weight loss, muscle spasms and death. The Best Home Remedies website cites that bilberry doses of 1.5 grams or more per kilogram of your body weight can cause death. Combining the use of bilberry with other medications, such as antabuse or blood thinners, also can be lethal. It also is important to not use bilberry if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your doctor should be consulted before taking bilberry.