Bilberry could well be the doppelganger for another familiar small, purplish-blue fruit used in pies, preserves and other foods. This European native is indeed related to the blueberry, and tastes markedly similar to its American counterpart. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, the health benefits of bilberry--also known as the European blueberry, whortleberry and huckleberry--hasn't been researched extensively, and there have been very few studies conducted in humans. The anthocyanosides in bilberry pack its punch, chemicals that have potent antioxidant properties and purportedly strengthen blood vessels and encourage better circulation, states the UMMC. Keep in mind that modern-day applications of bilberry are largely derived from its traditional use. Before using bilberry to address a specific health condition, please make sure to consult your doctor.
Vision
British fighter pilots consumed bilberry preserves during World War II to enhance their night vision; however, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, clinical studies have disproven that bilberry can enhance night vision. The UMMC indicates that bilberry could be beneficial for retinopathy (damage to the retina) and as a preventive measure to decrease risk of cataracts. However, there aren't enough studies to confirm that bilberry is definitively useful for these purposes.
Diarrhea
Historically, bilberry was used to treat diarrhea, states NCCAM, and this application of bilberry continues in current day. Bilberry's tannins are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, states the UMMC. Although no studies have been conducted in humans to confirm this, it is believed that the tannins could reduce inflammation in the intestines.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
In Europe, a standardized extract of bilberry called Vaccinium myrtillius anthocyanoside is used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. This condition is characterized by swelling in the legs, varicose veins, itching and skin ulcers. However, research is still preliminary, cautions the NIH. More studies need to be conducted on humans to determine if bilberry is useful for this purpose.
Atherosclerosis
Given its beneficial properties, bilberry may be useful for stopping the oxidation of "bad" cholesterol, a precursor to a health condition called atherosclerosis--blockage of the heart that leads to heart attack and stroke. However, although animal studies have been conducted, clinical research is needed to see how bilberry affects people.
Diabetes
Historically, bilberry has been used to help people with diabetes maintain healthy blood sugar levels, states the UMMC. However, the UMMC goes onto caution you that using bilberry for this purpose is not advised. Although bilberry shows promise in animal studies, human studies are lacking.
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