Botanical Overview
Vaccinium myrtillus (fructus), commonly known as bilberry fruit, European blueberry, or whortleberry, belongs to the Ericaceae family. The medicinally used part is the fruit or berry. Native primarily to Europe and Northern Asia, bilberry has also naturalized in parts of North America.
Energetics
The fruit is considered cooling and moistening, possessing an astringent and sour taste. It is tonifying, supporting qi and blood without a defined directionality.
Primary Actions
- Antioxidant
- Vasoprotective
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Hypoglycemic
Indications
Western
- Capillary fragility
- Eye fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Venous insufficiency
- Hyperglycemia
- Varicose veins
- Diabetic retinopathy
Syndromes
- Microcirculatory disorders
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Diabetic microangiopathy
- Inflammatory mucosal conditions
TCM
No well-documented traditional Chinese medicine uses.
Ayurveda
Not well characterized in Ayurvedic tradition.
Unani
Not specifically documented in Unani medicine.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Bilberry contains anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and vitamin C, contributing to its antioxidant, vascular strengthening, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Dry extract standardized for 80–160 mg anthocyanins daily
- Infusion of 2–5 g dried fruit, 1–3 times daily
- Standardized bilberry extracts typically at 160 mg daily
Safety & Contraindications
Vaccinium myrtillus fruit is generally safe for normal use. Hypersensitivity reactions are rare but possible. Use caution during pregnancy due to limited safety data. May potentiate effects of anticoagulants; monitoring is advised.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers documented in credible traditions.
Selected References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) herbal monograph on Vaccinium myrtillus fructus
- Plants For A Future Database: Vaccinium myrtillus
- Silva MS, et al., The role of bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) and its anthocyanins on human health, 2018
- Heinrich M, et al., Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals, 2020