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Bilberry

Bilberry (vaccinlium myrtillus) is a perennial ornamental shrub commonly found in a variety of climates. The parts of the bilberry (Vaccinium mryritillus, Linn.) plant used medicinally are the leaves and the berries. The leaves contain quinic acid and a small amount of tannin. The berries contain high amounts of the flavenoid complex anthocyanosides which exhibit potent antioxidant activity. Anthocyanosides support normal formation of connective tissue and strengthen capillaries in the body. The bilberry fruit contains flavonoids and anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant. Bioflavonoids are also extremely efficient antioxidants and assist the body in countering the harmful effects of free radicals. Anthocyanin strengthens the body's small blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting, and improves circulation through larger blood vessels. Bilberry also contains gluoquinine that has the ability to lower blood sugar. Evidence suggests that anthocyanosides may benefit the retina, as well as strengthen the walls of blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and stabilize collagen containing tissues. The anthocyanosides improve the activity of enzymes lactic dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoglucomutase, each involved in processes of vascular damage. They reduce the arterial deposits and stimulate the production of vasodilators, like prostaglandin (PG12), thus protecting the vascular wall. Anthocyanosides have strong antioxidant properties, as well. The incorporation of this phytomedicine into a composition provides at least 63 active principles in a single therapeutic. Bilberry fruit is known to strengthen fragile arteries and capillaries, and improve circulation to extremities, brain, eyes and heart. This benefit relieves varicose veins, reduces blood clots and atherosclerosis and is known to help in preventing strokes, heart attacks and vein problems. Bilberry is a powerful antioxidant that protects against free radical damage.

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