No, not blueberries, bilberries!

The FDA Just Banned Red Dye No.

3: The Future of Processed Foods

Is Red Wine Any Healthier for You Than White Wine?

alt

Proffee Is the Hottest New Beverage Trendbut Should You Really Be Adding Protein to Your Coffee?

Our editors independently select these products.

Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission

The wellness world certainly loves its superfoods.

alt

licensed herbal medicine practitioner and acupuncturist at the Acupuncture Jerusalem Clinic

(Plus, they all have a hell of a PR team.)

But one under-appreciated superstar that doesnt get as much attention?

But while they may resemble blueberries at first look, their flavor profile is much more acidic.

An image of four wine glasses on a wooden surface

The plant also has along history of medicinal uses dating back to the Middle Ages.

Today, its typically used as a dietary supplementalthough you could certainly eat it if you could find it.

But from what we do know, the plant certainly has promise when it comes to supporting overall health.

Young woman mixing ice coffee

Heres what to know.

5 potential bilberry benefits for overall health and well-being

1.

They can support cardiovascular health

Since bilberries are rich in antioxidants, they also may support heart health.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

licensed herbal medicine practitioner and acupuncturist at the Acupuncture Jerusalem Clinic

The FDA Is Speeding up Approval of Natural Food DyesHeres What you better Know

4.

Bilberry may also haveantimicrobial benefits.

And stress can have huge impacts onyour bodys ability to fight off sickness.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

Bilberries are good for your eyes

Bilberry can support eye health and aid in ocular circulation.

Are there any downsides to bilberries?

Some retailers do sell themjust be prepared to pay quite a bit more than you would for other berries.

red pigment in a wooden spoon

(Theyre alsosold in powder form.)

Bilberry is most often recommended in 80 to 100 milligram doses, says Jones.

(She likesNOW Bilberry Complex, $30 for 100 capsules.)

In terms of dosage, it would depend entirely on the makeup and specifics of the patient in question.

As such, an herbalist or doctor should be consulted before self-prescribing, she says.

The bottom line: Bilberries have lots of promising potential benefits.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.