Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium uliginosum)
Benefits of Bilberries
- Skin
- From: Throughout Europe
- Form: Plant extract
- Food source: Bilberries
What are Bilberries?
Bilberries, or European Blueberries, were one of the first foods to be labelled a 'superfood'. Bilberries are rich in natural plant pigments called 'anthocyanins', which give them their deep colour. They also contain related compounds called proanthocyanidins. Both have antioxidant activity, meaning they can neutralise 'free radicals' (unstable molecules) in the body. The darker the berry, the more of these pigments it contains, so Bilberries are a very good source of these natural antioxidants.
The word 'superfood' is thrown around a lot these days, and the list of so-called superfoods seems to be growing every day. Bilberries were there from the start.
What does the research say about Bilberries?
Blueberries, close relatives of bilberries, have been compared with other common fruits for their antioxidant activity.
Collagen is the stretchy, structural protein of your skin. Researchers have looked at the phenolic compounds in blueberries and skin cells, including in the context of UV exposure, pollution and diet.
Blueberries have also been studied in relation to the heart and circulation. Studies have looked at their effects on blood pressure, including in women after the menopause, and on markers of oxidation in the blood after a meal.
You may also enjoy reading 'The truth about collagen'.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin E
One of Vitamin E’s main benefits is that it acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants combat harmful ‘free radicals’ (unstable molecules), helping prevent damage to cell membranes.
Carrot
We all know carrots are good for us and this is because they're packed with nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants, that all work to benefit the health of your body.
Grape Seed
Grape Seed helps protect your body and skin's cells against free radicals, improving the health and appearance of your skin.
Green Tea
Green Tea is from the same plant as Earl Grey and English Breakfast tea, but hasn't undergone the withering and oxidation process, so it retains more health benefits, particularly as an antioxidant.
Hyaluronic Acid
Found in almost all the cells in our body, Hyaluronic acid is fundamental to your skin's moisture and hydration, helping keep a young and youthful complexion.
Inulin
Inulin is a gut-friendly fibre that helps friendly, active bacteria in your gut to grow. Inulin is a 'prebiotic', and prebiotics are vital to the health of probiotics.
Iodine
Iodine is an important mineral needed for the production of thyroid hormones, helping maintain the body’s metabolic rate, healthy skin and hair, and is crucial during pregnancy.
