by Melissa Chichester
In the middle of a hot summer day, is there anything better than a handful of fresh blueberries?
Let’s get to know a cousin of the blueberry that is just as versatile: bilberry! Bilberries are smaller than blueberries and contain seeds. What can be confusing is that in some languages, “bilberry” actually translates to “blueberry” in several languages.
Bilberries are native to the forests of Northern Europe (especially in Sweden) and grow in the mountains and forests of Canada and the United States. They also grow in Iceland. The name “bilberry” is derived from the Danish word “bollebar”, which means “dark berry.” It is also known as the “European blueberry.” Bilberries are recognizable for their rich colors. They range from reddish to purple to blue but are sometimes mistaken for black.
>>5 Beneficial Berries from Around the World
So what makes bilberries so special? They contain more than 15 naturally occurring anthocyanosides that provide many beneficial properties.* Read on to learn more about this bountiful berry!
Bilberry has been widely known to herbalists since the 16th century. Bilberries have been used in baked goods, jams, jellies, and pies for centuries. In France, they are used to flavor crepes, and in Poland, they are popular to eat fresh with cream sauce. Dried bilberries are a nutritious addition to trail mix and oatmeal. Bilberries are also used to make herbal teas.
During World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots used to consume bilberries before flying in the dark.*
Today, bilberry is still consumed widely as food, but they are also breaking into the beauty world. Many skincare and haircare creators are using bilberry oil in their formulas.
You can find bilberry in stores sold as frozen, dried, or fresh berries. Some places have even started selling cold-pressed bilberry juice and extracts.
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Bilberries are known for their impressive role in supporting healthy eye function and may help support night vision.* Traditional use claims are based on historical or traditional practices. Bilberry was consumed by World War II pilots for eye health support.* They contain antioxidants, which help to scavenge free radicals generated by the exposure of the eye lens to light.*
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In addition, bilberries support the health of retinal cells, blood vessel walls, and promotes vascular health to the capillaries in the eyes.*
Bilberries also help support eye function by promoting healthy circulation and collagen formation*
Bilberries also promote antioxidant support in the body.* They contain Vitamin C, which is a well-known antioxidant.
There are many ways to enjoy bilberries today, whether they are fresh or you are interested in trying bilberry supplements. When you are looking for bilberry supplements, When you are looking for bilberry supplements, choose Puritan’s Pride products because our vitamins and supplements ensure you the highest quality nutritional supplements money can buy.
