Bilberry and blueberry are closely related plants of the order Vaccinium myrtillus. Blueberry is native to the United States, while bilberry is found in Europe, Canada, northern Asia and the United States. Both produce edible fruit, and the berries and leaves of both plants are used as herbal remedies. While bilberry and blueberry are both popular in alternative and complementary medicine, insufficient scientific research has been conducted to support all the health benefits claimed by some proponents.
Features
Bilberry shrubs grow to 16 inches tall, and have sharp green branches. Bilberry fruit is a small, deep-black, wrinkled berry that ripens in late summer. North American blueberry plants are classified as either high-bush or low-bush blueberries. Blueberry shrubs have waxy leaves and produce clusters of round deep-blue berries in the summer.
History
Bilberry and blueberry have been revered by many cultures throughout history. According to The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, Native Americans would preserve blueberries and use them year round. By showing these techniques to the Pilgrims, they helped them survive their first winter. Europeans have used bilberry for centuries to treat scurvy, soothe women in childbirth and improve eyesight. British pilots in World War II claimed to have increased night vision from eating bilberry jam.
Uses
Bilberry and blueberry are used in baking and cooking and are especially popular in pies and jams. Ripe bilberries are used in herbal extracts. Both bilberry and blueberry leaves are commonly used to brew medicinal tea.
Benefits
According to Cornell University, blueberries are the highest in antioxidants when compared to 40 other fruits. Antioxidants have been shown to promote heart health, fight cancer and enhance the body's overall wellness. Cornell also sites a compound in blueberries that inhibits bacteria, fights infections and treats urinary tract problems. Bilberries also contain high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, and have been used to treat diabetes, heal wounds, relieve diarrhea and sharpen vision. While bilberry and blueberry have been shown to have some success treating these conditions, more research and human trials are needed to support these claims.
Cautions
Bilberry may interact with anticoagulants and medicine for diabetes, and should not be taken with these types of medications without consulting a doctor. According to the University of Michigan, there are currently no known drug interactions with blueberries. While bilberry and blueberry are generally considered safe, large quantities should not be taken for extended periods of times, as the tannins in the berries can cause severe weight loss and muscle spasms.
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