Berries are a remarkable group of fruits, celebrated not only for their delightful taste but also for their wide variety in types, flavours, and sizes, making them available all year round. They offer a host of nutritional benefits, are packed with antioxidants, and can be enjoyed both raw or added to various dishes. Beyond their culinary appeal, berries are gaining recognition for their versatility in skincare.
Whether consumed or applied topically, they provide significant benefits to the skin. One particularly beneficial berry is the bilberry, known for its succulent taste and powerful extract, which has been linked to numerous skin health advantages.
Read on to explore the benefits of bilberry extracts in greater detail.
Also Read: Rated Radiant: 5 Daily Golden Skin Care Rules To Follow For Glowing Skin
What Is A Bilberry?
Bilberries are dark blue fruits closely related to blueberries. These tiny fruits are native to Europe and known for their high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, which give the fruit its colour. Traditionally, bilberry has been used for various health benefits, including enhancing circulation and supporting eye health. It improves night vision, reduces eye strain, and prevents age-related macular degeneration. By promoting circulation and strengthening the blood vessels, it can alleviate symptoms of varicose veins. The Anti-inflammatory properties of these little berries can reduce inflammation in the body and help with conditions like arthritis. And like other berries, it aids in digestion and gut health.
Bilberry is primarily found in the wild, but you can also find it in the following forms:
Fresh Berries: They are available in certain markets during the harvest season.
Dried Bilberries: These are commonly used in teas, baked goods, and trail mixes.
Bilberry Extracts: Found in supplement form they are often standardized for anthocyanin content.
Bilberry Jam and Jellies: Made from berries they are popular in certain regions.
Bilberry Tea: Brewed from dried leaves or berries.
While not as widely available as blueberries, these sources can be found in health food stores or online. Offering a range of benefits that contribute to detoxification and overall health, making it a valuable addition to a wellness regimen, check out the infographic to find out how it can benefit your skin:
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu, Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile:
Preeti Sharma:
Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References
Chapter 4Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.)
Wing-kwan Chu, Sabrina C. M. Cheung, Roxanna A. W. Lau, and Iris F. F. Benzie.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92770/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9277355/
