Bilberry Fruit / Lutein

Bilberry is a perennial shrub that is native to northern areas of Europe, Asia and the United States and Canada. Bilberry is also known by the names Blueberry, Whortleberry, Black Whortles, Hurtleberry, Trackleberry, Dyeberry, Whinberry, Huckleberry and Grouseberry. The Bilberry plant produces a fruit similar to the American Blueberry, but containing higher quantities of constituents useful for visual acuity and night blindness. The genus, Vaccinium, is derived from was used in classical Latin for a type of berry (probably the bilberry), but its ultimate derivation is obscure; contrary to some thought, it has nothing to do with vaccinum "of or pertaining to cows." Bilberry Fruit was frequently taken during World War II by British pilots to enhance their night vision before flights. Today, Bilberry is being is used as an antioxidant and is thought to be very beneficial for strengthening red blood cells and capillaries around the eyes. By supplying added oxygen to the blood, Bilberry benefits all capillaries in the body to improve circulation to the hands and feet. Bilberry is rich in fatty acids, bioflavonoids, iron, zinc and phosphorus. It also contains mallic and ursolic acids, magnesium, selenium, and trace amounts of sodium and calcium. The fruits are astringent and can be especially valuable in the botanical support of diarrhea and dysentery, typically in the form of syrup. A decoction of the leaves or bark of the root may be used as a local application to ulcers and in cases of ulceration of the mouth and throat. Best when taken over time, Bilberry influences its unique nutritional properties by strengthening the immune system. It is also useful for relieving stress, inflammation and anxiety. Bilberry is also said to be beneficial as a urinary tract antiseptic, as well as a daily dietary supplement.

Lutein is a xanthophyll, which is a type of carotenoid pigment. Lutein is a yellowish pigment found in kale, spinach and broccoli, and gives the yellow color to corn, egg yolk, and various fruits, vegetables and flowers. The term 'xanthophyll' is derived from Greek words, i.e., xantho, meaning yellow and phylls, meaning leaves. Major known functions of the phytochemicals known as carotenoids are photoreception and photoprotection. Carotenoids are also strong antioxidants and protect a plant's tissues from damage caused by free radicals formed by UV-radiation, etc. When we eat carotenoids such as beta-carotene and Lutein through food or supplements, they protect our body against free radical damage as well. In addition to antioxidant actions, beta-carotene converts in our body to vitamin A, which is an essential for body functions including vision. Like beta-carotene, Lutein is a carotenoid found commonly in diets, and studies indicate that Lutein is an essential nutrient for healthy eyes and vision. Lutein has been found to accumulate in the area of the retina known as the macula, which is important for crisp, clear vision. It is theorized that Lutein helps keep the macula free of free radical damage. Free radical damage of the macula leads to its thinning, which is known as macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of blindness. Recent studies have also shown that Lutein may be helpful in preventing cataracts and glaucoma, as well as certain cancers and artherosclerosis.