Historically bilberry leaves and fruit have been used for managing diabetic concerns, gastrointestinal complaints, eye health, and urinary system infections. Extracts of bilberry are used to address age-related degeneration in the circulatory systems and diseases where inflammation is a strong underlying factor, such as heart disease and retinopathy (eye problems). There's also evidence that bilberry may help alleviate eye fatigue caused by extensive computer and video monitor use.

Bilberry fruit contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These are bleieved to come from the fruit's anthocyanoside (aka anthocyanidins). These plant chemicals are powerful antioxidants and may help protect the body from the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Adding bilberry to your daily diet is a delicious way to enjoy its health protective benefits: You can incorporate bilberries into your diet by adding it to your yogurt, oatmeal, or salad.  For specific health concerns, extracts of bilberry are available in capsule and tincture, both of which should be standardized to contain a specific percent of anthocyanins. Check with your Dr. John W. Phelts, D.C. for the appropriate extract for your helath needs.

References

Chu W, Cheung SCM, Lau RAW, et al. Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition.(2011). Chapter 4. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis. Accessed 10 Aug 2017 from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92770/

Ozawa Y, Kawashima M, Inoue S, et al. Bilberry extract supplementation for preventing eye fatigue in video display terminal workers. J Nutr Health Aging.(2015) May 19(5):548-54.