Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)

Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a member of the Ericaceae family, native to Northern Hemisphere Temperate Regions, Northern Europe, and North America. Traditionally, its fruits, leaves, and bark have been used for infusions, decoctions, and tinctures.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, native american herbal medicine, and mediterranean herbal traditions.

Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Blueberry
Scientific Name	Vaccinium myrtillus
Plant Family	Ericaceae
Genus	Vaccinium
Species	myrtillus
Native Range	Northern Hemisphere Temperate Regions, Northern Europe, North America
Plant Parts Used	Fruits, Leaves, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Native American Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Tincture

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Vaccinium myrtillus
Common Name: Blueberry
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Whortleberry, Bog Bilberry, Bog Bilberry
Plant Family: Ericaceae
Genus: Vaccinium

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 10 to 30 centimeters.
Leaves: Laminar surfaces with stomatal bands, upper surface glabrous, lower surface pubescent.
Flowers: Small, bell-shaped flowers with five white to pale blue petals, arranged in clusters, actinomorphic, with five stamens and a superior ovary.
Stems: Erect growth habit, alternate branching, glabrous surface, and presence of persistent stipules.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Native American Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Traditional Chinese Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Tincture
Poultice

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: As described in traditional systems, a cooling anti-inflammatory, in inflammation-focused discussions.
Astringent: Commonly referenced as a mild astringent, in drying-focused uses.
Tonic: In herbal texts, considered a calming tonic, for foundational support.
Diuretic: In herbal literature, noted as a moderate diuretic, in cleansing-oriented uses.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: A widely occurring class of plant polyphenols found in leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Phenolic Acid: A class of aromatic plant compounds commonly found in leaves, seeds, and stems.
Tannin: A class of polyphenolic compounds commonly found in bark, leaves, and seeds.
Anthocyanin: Naturally occurring compounds contributing to plant pigmentation.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: There is insufficient evidence to determine specific contraindications related to this herb.
Allergies: Sensitivity or allergy-related effects have not been clearly established.
Drug Interactions: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb interacts with pharmaceutical drugs.
Toxicity: Reports of toxicity related to this herb are not well documented in available literature.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Available information regarding use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction: Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice: This method uses direct contact between plant material and the skin.
Tincture: Alcohol is used as a solvent to extract plant constituents over time.
Extract: Plant compounds are extracted using water, glycerin, or other solvents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers peaty soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in high organic matter soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates partial shade to full shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.