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Bilberry

Bilberry

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The Eyes Have It
Michelle Newbold

 

Also known as:
Vaccinium myrtillus, European blueberry

Uses:
• Eye strain
• Improves vision

Description:
Bilberry is a shrub which grows in woods and forests throughout Europe. It has been used for many years as a general tonic for the eyes. It is said that during WWII RAF pilots were encouraged to eat bilberries to improve night vision.

How it works:
The main constituents of Bilberries are known as anthocyanosides - a group of flavonoids. These have the ability to bind to the part of the retina which is responsible for vision, which in turn increases the rate of regeneration of the visual pigments in the retina.

In addition, the substances present in Bilberry have the ability to prevent the destruction of collagen, which is responsible for stabilising the delicate tissue structure of the eyes.

One particular anthocyanidin, myrtillin, has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels.

Additional advice:
For oral use only. Do not place in the eyes.