Bilberry

So what is a bilberry anyways?

Billberry has been known as a powerful medicinal herb since early European times. While commonly called bilberries, this herb is also known as huckleberry, bogberry and the European berry. As a short shrub, the bilberry plant grows to a height of around two feet and produces flowers which bloom pink and red in the spring. While the fruit is the most commonly consumed part of the plant, the leaves of the bilberry shrub are known for their medicinal potency. With a fantastic ability to promote vision, WWII pilots were known to eat bilberry before night raids to gain a sense of night vision. Like the closely related blueberry and crandberry, bilberries are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities.

Key Nutrients

Bilberries are a great source of vitamin C. Bilberries have a high amount of dietary fiber, while having a low amount of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Health Benefits

Bilberry is used as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent tonic to treat a variety of health conditions. This includes benefits to the digestive system, nervous system and circulatory system.
Vitamin C – Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infections and scavenges harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals. Vitamin C also helps to prevent respiratory problems such as asthma and lung cancer. Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure, and therefore lessen the probability of hypertension.

Season

Bilberries mature in late August to early September. The dried berry can be found year round.

Nutrition Information

Per 100 grams:

Calories (cKal):
Protein (grams):
Total Fat (grams):
Carbohydrates (grams):
Fiber (grams):

Buying and Storing

When buying bilberry, make sure the berries are bright blue and are not crushed. When storing at home, keep refrigerated for up to one week.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Bilberries make a great jam when combined with sugar and pectin. Additionally, making a sauce out of bilberries pairs well with a wide variety of proteins including lamb and salmon.