An ancient food plant of Europe, bilberry emerged as a medicinal herb in the sixteenth century.

Bilberry leaf has been used for diabetes, stomach problems, arthritis, blood circulation problems, and heart problems. Bilberry contains anthocyanosides, compounds that benefit the circulatory system. Bilberry strengthens blood vessels and connective tissue, builds strong capillaries, improves circulation, and may help to control the formation of blood clots, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. Additionally, the compounds (anthocyanosides) in Bilberry helps the eyes adapt to light changes and enhances night vision. It has also been shown to fight eye fatigue, night blindness, near-sightedness, strain; and restrains development of cataracts. Tannin, found in dried Bilberry berries, helps to control diarrhea and related intestinal inflammation. Extract of Bilberry protects the stomach against digestive acids because it stimulates the production of stomach mucus. The leaves of the Bilberry are high in chromium - important to regulate blood sugar levels. This may benefit people who are diabetic or hypoglycemic. Improves circulation; beneficial during pregnancy; mild diuretic; good for spider veins.

In Europe, herbal preparations of bilberry fruit are used to enhance poor micro circulation, thus improving eye conditions such as night blindness and diabetic retinopathy. Pigments called anthocyanosides help regenerate a pigment in the retina which is essential for the eye to adapt to light.

Fragility of capillaries is a common condition in the elderly which can result in a tendency to bruise easily. Weak capillaries are associated with poor blood circulation to connective tissues and with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Anthocyanosides in bilberry strengthen capillaries by protecting them from free radical damage. They also stimulate the formation of healthy connective tissue and aid in the formation of new capillaries. Bilberry may reduce blood platelet stickiness (platelet aggregation), a risk factor associated with arteriosclerosis

With all of these properties Bilberry can be thought of as a wonder herb.