Bilberry: The elixir of eternal youth
Bilberry, or Vaccinium myrtillus (in Latin), is made from a small, blue berry that has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. Like its close relatives, blueberries, blueberries have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The plant
It is a small wild perennial flowering shrub that produces blue berries and is one of the numerous species of the Ericaceae (Ericaceae) family. It is an indigenous plant of Northern Europe, which has been distinguished for its rich nutrients. Today, it is cultivated in the temperate and cold regions of Northern Asia, Europe, North America and is, in addition to being a superfood, a popular flavoring ingredient in pies and jams.
The benefits
- The bilberry is rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, and β-carotene, sugars, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, mineral acids, mineral salts, pectin and fiber. As a result of this it can act as a shield for the body against various threats.
- Clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that consumption of flavonoids in food and beverages may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Phenolic compounds appear to help slow cardiovascular disease by reducing blood lipid oxidation.
- Research done at the University of Montreal has shown that blueberry consumption could offer protection against the development of diabetes.
- It appears to have anti-aging properties. Its juice may help prevent neurodegenerative diseases, reduce the progression of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Also, human and animal studies have shown that it can improve memory-related processes.
- It has been found that blueberry may have an effect against urinary tract infections.
- Consumption of them has been found to enhance night vision.