Blueberries have anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. they are good for the health of the eyes, intestines,
circulatory system and urinary tract.
The properties of blueberry
Blueberries are part of the Vaccinium species, which also includes cranberries and bilberries. They are small, purple berries that are commonly found in western and central Europe, Canada and North America. Thought to have been used in European folk medicine since the 16th century, blueberries have excellent antioxidant properties which make them useful for preventing cancer and other degenerative diseases. In fact, when compared to other fruits, blueberries are among the top sources of antioxidants.
Blueberries have a powerful antibacterial action in the intestine – especially upon coli bacteria – they promote the healing of gastric ulcers, and the leaves of the blueberry plant contain tannin, which has strong anti-diarrhoeal properties.
Blood circulation is enhanced by substances found in blueberries, such as vitamins A and C, bioflavonoids, anthocyanosides, glycosides and delphininol. Blueberries may help to lower blood sugar, decrease the chances of blood clots forming and enhance the health of blood capillaries.
Blueberries can improve eye health and sight. This is thought to be due to compounds in the berries that enhance the health of capillaries in the eye.
Cranberries (Vaccinium oxycoccos) are a close relative of blueberries and are native to North America. They are a well-known and popular treatment for urinary-tract infections, such as cystitis (an inflammation of the bladder resulting in frequent, urgent and often painful urination). Drinking the fresh juice of either blueberries or cranberries can help to prevent urinary tract infections.
Blueberries in the diet
Since blueberries are excellent antioxidants, they are important in the diet to promote long-term health and to prevent age-related physical changes and chronic diseases. In particular, people with cardiovascular problems, mild diabetes, eye problems, urinary tract or intestinal infections should eat blueberries regularly. Blueberries make wonderful pies, syrups and jam and are much enjoyed by children. They can be made into liqueurs or preserves for adults or the berries can be added to fruit salad or simply eaten as a snack on their own.
Medicinal preparations
In addition to eating blueberries, the berries and leaves can be made into medicinal preparations. Blueberry decoction is useful for diarrhoea, colitis and poor night vision. It can be used as a mouthwash for sore throats and ulcers, and as a face wash for eczema. To make, boil 75 g blueberries in 1 litre of water until the volume of water has halved. Strain and use as appropriate.
Blueberry and strawberry leaf decoction is good for mild diabetes, intestinal problems, arteriosclerosis, rheumatism and arthritis and it can be drunk throughout the day. Boil 20 g each of blueberry and strawberry leaves in 1 litre of water for 3 minutes. Then leave to infuse for 10 minutes, strain and drink.
To make a tincture of blueberries, add 100 g fresh blueberries, a handful of blueberry leaves and the zest of one lemon to 700 ml vodka. Leave in a cool, dark place for 3 weeks and then press and strain the mixture and store in a tightly sealed bottle. Take 20–30 drops of this tincture a day for diarrhoea, intestinal problems,