Vaccinium Myrtillus: Complete Medicinal Profile
Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as the bilberry, is a type of small shrub that belongs to the heath family and is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, including its high anthocyanin content, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it effective in treating various health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and eye problems.
The health benefits of bilberry include improved circulation, reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced cognitive function, as well as its potential to prevent certain types of cancer.
Bilberry is typically prepared as a dried fruit, tea, or jam, and its herbal preparations can also be found in supplement form, with recommended dosages varying depending on the individual's health needs and the specific preparation used.
Study of the Day
According to Methods (San Diego, Calif.), Vaccinium myrtillus, or blueberry, has been found to have antigiardial activity, killing G. duodenalis trophozoites and modifying the morphology of both G. duodenalis and C. parvum, making it a potential natural remedy for treating diarrhoea caused by these parasites.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Vaccinium myrtillus.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Vaccinium myrtillus is used to treat a variety of health issues due to its numerous benefits.
It is used to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as to alleviate symptoms of diabetes, such as improved glucose regulation.
The plant has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and gout.
Additionally, Vaccinium myrtillus has been used to boost the immune system, reduce oxidative stress, and exhibit antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, making it a valuable natural remedy for overall health and wellness.
The health benefits of Vaccinium myrtillus are listed below.
- High in antioxidants: Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as bilberry, is rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins and flavonoids, which help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Supports eye health: The high antioxidant content in bilberries has been shown to improve vision and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Rich in fiber: Bilberries are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health, support healthy blood sugar levels, and even aid in weight management.
- May help manage blood sugar: The anthocyanins in bilberries have been shown to have a positive effect on glucose metabolism and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Supports heart health: The fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients in bilberries may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- May help reduce inflammation: The antioxidants and other compounds in bilberries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate conditions such as arthritis.
- Supports immune function: Bilberries contain a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin c, which is essential for a healthy immune system and can help protect against infections.
Here are the best health benefits of Vaccinium myrtillus.
Actions
Vaccinium myrtillus has been found to exhibit a range of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties, which primarily affect the circulatory system, digestive system, and immune system.
The anthocyanins present in the plant also display antiviral, antimicrobial, and cardio-protective effects, impacting the cardiovascular system and respiratory system.
Additionally, the flavonoids and phenolic acids in Vaccinium myrtillus exhibit anti-diarrheal, anti-gastric, and anti-ulcerative properties, affecting the gastrointestinal system.
Furthermore, the plant's tannins and phenolic compounds exhibit astringent, hemostatic, and vulnerary properties, impacting the skin, mucous membranes, and integumentary system.
The therapeutic actions of Vaccinium myrtillus are listed below.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits properties that inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and swelling in the body.
- Antiviral: Inhibits the replication of viruses and helps to prevent viral infections.
- Antidiarrheal: Helps to slow down bowel movements and relieve diarrhea.
- Astringent: Helps to reduce bleeding and contracts tissues, often used topically to stop bleeding.
- Adaptogenic: Helps the body to adapt to stress and promotes balance in the body's physiological processes.
Constituents
Vaccinium myrtillus has been found to contain a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and organic acids.
These constituents possess a range of healing properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects from the anthocyanins and flavonoids, antimicrobial properties from the phenolic acids and tannins, and the ability to modulate metabolic processes from the organic acids.
Additionally, the flavonoids and tannins in Vaccinium myrtillus have been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties, while the anthocyanins exhibit neuroprotective effects.
Furthermore, the bioactive constituents of Vaccinium myrtillus also include quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhapontigenin, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as the ability to modulate cardiovascular health.
The bioactive constituents of Vaccinium myrtillus are listed below.
- Tannins: Polyphenolic compounds that provide astringent and antimicrobial properties, contributing to the plant's defense against pathogens.
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds with antioxidant properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Anthocyanins: Pigment responsible for the plant's blue to purple color, exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ellagic acid: A polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
- Proanthocyanidins: A type of flavonoid with antioxidant properties, which may help protect against cardiovascular diseases and cognitive decline.
- Phenolic acids: A class of compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Vaccinium myrtillus are the leaves, fruits, roots, and flowers.
The leaves are used to treat various health issues, such as digestive problems, inflammation, and infections, due to their high content of antioxidants and flavonoids, which are used in traditional medicine to make remedies for colds, fever, and sore throats.
The fruits, also known as blueberries, are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are used to prevent heart diseases, support eye health, and improve cognitive function, as well as being used in culinary and cosmetic applications.
The roots and flowers are used in herbal teas to treat urinary tract issues, and as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent in traditional medicine, respectively.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Vaccinium myrtillus and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Leaves | Diarrhea, kidney stones, urinary tract infections |
| Fruits | Anemia, cancer prevention, high blood pressure |
| Berries | Antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral |
| Stems | Digestive issues, inflammation, pain relief |
Preparations
Vaccinium myrtillus most common herbal preparations are infusions, tinctures, and ointments, which are utilized for various health purposes.
Infusions, made by steeping the leaves in hot water, are traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and indigestion, as well as to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.
Tinctures, which are concentrated extracts of the plant, are often used to create homeopathic remedies for skin conditions like eczema and acne, as well as to address issues related to stress and anxiety.
Additionally, ointments prepared from the plant's leaves are applied topically to soothe wounds, burns, and inflammation, and to reduce the appearance of age-related skin imperfections like fine lines and wrinkles.
The herbal preparations of Vaccinium myrtillus are listed below.
- Vaccinium myrtillus infusion: A tea made by infusing dried vaccinium myrtillus leaves in hot water, traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
- Vaccinium myrtillus tincture: A concentrated liquid extract made by macerating vaccinium myrtillus berries in a solvent, used to treat digestive issues and as a natural antiseptic.
- Vaccinium myrtillus decoction: A tea made by simmering vaccinium myrtillus leaves and berries in water, traditionally used to treat respiratory issues and as a natural expectorant.
- Vaccinium myrtillus salve: A topical cream or ointment made by infusing vaccinium myrtillus leaves in a carrier oil, used to treat skin irritations and wounds.
- Vaccinium myrtillus infused oil: A carrier oil infused with the medicinal properties of vaccinium myrtillus leaves, used topically to treat skin issues and as a natural anti-inflammatory.
- Vaccinium myrtillus glycerite: A sweetened liquid extract made by infusing vaccinium myrtillus berries in a solvent, used to treat digestive issues and as a natural anti-inflammatory.
- Vaccinium myrtillus capsules: A dietary supplement made by encapsulating dried vaccinium myrtillus berries, used to treat digestive issues and as a natural antioxidant.
Side Effects
Vaccinium myrtillus side effects are primarily experienced by individuals who consume excessive amounts of the plant, particularly children and pregnant women.
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, as well as allergic reactions like hives, itching, and swelling.
Additionally, long-term consumption may lead to kidney problems, decreased blood pressure, and interactions with certain medications like blood thinners, diabetes medications, and high blood pressure medications, resulting in symptoms like bruising, dizziness, and fainting.
To minimize the risk of side effects, it is recommended to consume Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as bilberry, in moderation, avoid using it as a treatment for serious medical conditions, and be cautious of its interactions with other substances, especially in vulnerable populations.
The possible side effects of Vaccinium myrtillus are listed below.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to vaccinium myrtillus, which can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
- Gastrointestinal upset: Consuming vaccinium myrtillus in large quantities can cause stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Interaction with medications: Vaccinium myrtillus may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and decrease their effectiveness or increase the risk of bleeding.
- Kidney stone risk: Drinking vaccinium myrtillus juice in excess may increase the risk of developing kidney stones due to its high oxalate content.
- Low blood sugar: Consuming vaccinium myrtillus may lower blood sugar levels, which can be a concern for people with diabetes.
- Stomach cramps: Some individuals may experience stomach cramps or abdominal pain after consuming vaccinium myrtillus, possibly due to its high tannin content.
- Urinary tract issues: Vaccinium myrtillus may irritate the urinary tract and worsen conditions such as kidney disease or bladder problems.