Like other flavonoids, Bilberry protects cells and membranes from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive chemical fragments which are broken off during the metabolism of both toxic and non-toxic compounds in the body. When free radicals encounter healthy cell membranes, they can cause damage, impairing cell function and leading to premature death of cells. Bilberry flavonoids are unique in that they support both your blood vessels and blood cells by maintaining the flexibility of the cell membranes.
Capillaries are better able to stretch thus increasing blood flow.
Red blood cells are better able to change their shape allowing easier passage thru narrow capillaries. Bilberry is also used when treating angina, varicose veins, eye sight problems, and thrombosis. The herb bilberry contains both flavonoids and anthocyanin, which serve to prevent capillary fragility, thin the blood, and stimulate the release of vasodilators. The natural antioxidant Anthocyanin in bilberry also lowers blood pressure , reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system . Bilberry also contains glucoquinine which helps to lower blood sugar level.