It's time to talk about herbs again! I've been enjoying a new one that makes a nice tea. It's called Bilberry Fruit or Vaccinium Myrtillus. Some other names you might recognize are huckleberrry, whortleberry or hurtleberry.
Nutrients: This herb is especially high in iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, thiamine, vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc.
Nutritional Healing
- This plant contains anthocyanidins which have anti-aging properties. These compounds inhibit collagen destruction, scavenger free radicals, reduce capillary permeability, increase blood circulation to periperal blood vessels and the brain, reduce inflammation and pain, and relieve muscle spasms. In Europe where herbal medicicine is so much more common than here in the States, Bilberry is one of the most popular over-the counter medicines.
- This herb is a wonderful tonic for eyesight. It has been shown in studies that it improves night vision. In fact, during World War II, British pilots took Bilberry before flights to improve their night vision. It is also thought that Bilberry might be useful in the prevention and treatment of glaucoma since it strengthens connective tissue and prevents free radical damage.
- Bilbery is also useful for the treatment of diarrhea and for topical relief of minor mucus membrane inflammation such as canker sores.
- Bilberry's flavenoids aid in decreasing blood platelet aggregation which can lead to strokes and heart attacks. Bilberry flavonoids may also benefit varicose veins by strengthening capillaries and vein structure, as well as strengthening the blood-brain barrier.
Wow - I just thought it tasted good as a tea!
Ways to Use
- You can sprinkle this on salads or add to your smoothies. If you need some great ideas on smoothie making, click here and here.
- This makes a great tea or standard infusion. I mix this with a little Red Raspberry Leaf and sip away. It's very satisfying.
- If you want, you could even make a standard decoction or tincture of this herb. I've never tried it as I really enjoy just taking it as tea.
So check out your favorite herb store and purchase a little Bilberry for your health! If you need some resources online to find it - try Frontier or Mountain Rose Herbs.
Karla
1 comment:
I can attest to bilberry and itshelp in improving eye health. I used to have bothersome a few tiny dark spots in my line of vision. I began taking bilberry daily, and continue to do so. They went away within a week of beginning treatment, and as long as I continue with it, they remain at bay.
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