| The dried berries and leaves of bilberry
have been recommended for a wide variety of conditions, including
scurvy, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Perhaps
the most sound historical application is the use of the dried
berries for the treatment of diarrhea. Modern research of bilberry
was partly based on its use by British World War II pilots,
who noticed that their night vision improved when they ate bilberry
jam prior to night bombing raids.
Traditionally, both the leaves and berries of this shrub
has been used as an astringent. A decoction of the berries
was employed for fevers. The juice of the berries was used
as a gargle and mouthwash for catarrh.
Extracts of bilberry have antiviral in cell culture for herpes
simplex virus II, influenza, and vaccinia viruses. Kills or
inhibits the growth of funguses, yeasts, and bacteria. It
also kills protozoans such as Trichomonas vaginalis. Bilberry
is an anti-inflammatory herb. Anthocyanins in the herb act
to prevent capillary fragility and inhibit platelet aggregation.
Also has potential for the prevention of thrombosis and may
reverse attacks of angina from results of animal studies.
Was found to prevent atherosclerosis in cholesterol loaded
animals.
Further, bilberry is an antihistamine; it improves vision
and has potential for the treatment of pigmentary retinitis.
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