10 Health Benefits Of Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry)

Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as blueberry, has health benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

The high content of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants, helps to protect the body from cell damage and oxidative stress. This can improve heart health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improving cognitive function.

Additionally, blueberry extract has been shown to have potential anti-cancer properties, which can lead to improved overall quality of life for those affected by cancer.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Vaccinium myrtillus.

1. Improves night vision

Vaccinium myrtillus improves night vision because it enhances the function of rhodopsin, a protein in the retina that is responsible for adjusting to changes in light.

The antioxidant and flavonoid-rich properties of blueberries help to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, allowing for better adaptation to low-light conditions and improved visual acuity at night.

This can lead to enhanced contrast sensitivity, motion detection, and overall vision clarity in dimly lit environments.

2. Reduces eye fatigue

Vaccinium myrtillus reduces eye fatigue because it is rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that protect the eyes from oxidative stress.

These compounds have been shown to improve visual acuity, reduce inflammation, and enhance the function of the retina and optic nerve.

As a result, consuming Vaccinium myrtillus may help alleviate symptoms of eye fatigue, such as dryness, irritation, and blurred vision, promoting overall ocular health and comfort.

3. Slows down macular degeneration

Vaccinium myrtillus slows down macular degeneration because of its rich antioxidant and anthocyanin content.

The anthocyanins in blueberries have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina, which are key contributing factors to macular degeneration. Additionally, the antioxidants in blueberries help to improve visual acuity and protect against age-related damage to the eye.

By consuming blueberries regularly, individuals may be able to slow down the progression of this debilitating condition.

4. Prevents cataracts

Vaccinium myrtillus prevents cataracts because of its unique antioxidant and anthocyanin properties.

The powerful antioxidants in blueberries have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes, which can contribute to the development of cataracts.

Additionally, the anthocyanins present in blueberries have been found to increase the production of glutathione, a potent antioxidant that helps protect the lens of the eye from damage.

5. Alleviates diabetic retinopathy

Vaccinium myrtillus alleviates diabetic retinopathy because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The anthocyanins present in blueberries have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina, thereby protecting against damage caused by high blood sugar levels.

This protection helps to prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss if left untreated.

6. Enhances collagen production

Vaccinium myrtillus enhances collagen production because it contains high amounts of anthocyanins and flavonoids, which have been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity.

The berries' antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, which can break down collagen and lead to signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin.

By consuming Vaccinium myrtillus, individuals may experience improved skin health and a more youthful appearance.

7. Promotes wound healing

Vaccinium myrtillus promotes wound healing because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The berries contain anthocyanins and quercetin, which have been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in inflammation and oxidative stress.

Additionally, blueberries have been found to stimulate the production of collagen, a crucial protein for tissue repair, and enhance blood flow to wounded areas, thereby facilitating the healing process.

8. Reduces inflammation

Vaccinium myrtillus reduces inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

The berries contain anthocyanins, powerful flavonoids that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Additionally, blueberries have been shown to suppress the activation of NF-κB, a key transcription factor involved in the inflammatory response, leading to a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and an overall anti-inflammatory effect.

9. Inhibits oxidative stress

Vaccinium myrtillus inhibits oxidative stress because of its high antioxidant capacity.

The berries contain a wide range of polyphenolic compounds, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to neutralize free radicals and prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

This ability to scavenge ROS helps to protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.

10. Boosts cognitive function

Vaccinium myrtillus boosts cognitive function because of its high antioxidant and anthocyanin content.

These compounds have been shown to improve memory and cognitive performance by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

Studies have demonstrated that consuming blueberries can enhance working memory, processing speed, and attention, making it an excellent natural supplement for maintaining healthy brain function and potentially mitigating age-related cognitive decline.