What is it
It is a shrub up to 60 cm tall that grows widely in the twilight of the woods halfway up the hill in the Northern Hemisphere.
The botanical name is Vaccinium myrtillus and is part of the heather family. It produces edible purple blue fruits rich in anthocyanins that give it the typical pigmentation.
For medicinal purposes, dried leaves and fruits are used and harvested in summer.
Activity
Blueberry is an antioxidant and anti-radical; The anthocyanosides contained can capture any known type of radical. In addition, it is able to act in different parts of the body. Let’s see in detail how and where.
Eyes | As it promotes the regeneration of some specific tissues of the retina, it improves night vision |
Vessels | It has a protective action against capillaries and venous vessels. To protect the capillaries are anthocyanins, of which it is rich: they maintain the integrity of collagen and elastic tissues
Studies have shown that dry extract reduces oxidation of LDL cholesterol particles, responsible for the formation of atherosclerotic plaques |
Gastrointestinal and urinary tract | At the level of the intestine and bladder, anthocyanosides Contained in the plant prevent colibacilli from adhering to the wall of these organs, with a marked astringent and disinfectant action. Acts in particular against diarrhea and cystitis |
There are many natural remedies to treat cystitis. Read this article and find out what they are.
Why is it used
Blueberry is used in case of capillary fragility in the retina, even in case of hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy.
It is also used in case of venous or lymphatic circulation problems and with a sense of heaviness of the legs or swelling. Dried cranberry is also used in case of diarrhea or cystitis.
How to use it
In phytotherapy, the dry extract nebulized and titrated in anthocyanidins at 23.2-26.4% is used.
Its daily dosage is equal to 60-120 mg of titrated dry extract, to be taken between meals for two or three months, after which it is advisable to suspend the intake for 20 days.
Effects
To date, no major side effects have been reported, although administration at high doses and for long periods may result in hydroquinone poisoning.
It can cause allergy problems in those who are hypersensitive.
Precautions
The dry extract of cranberry, due to its diuretic action, can promote the formation of kidney stones from oxalates and phosphates. It should therefore be used with caution in predisposed subjects.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.