Whether fresh or dried, it can be difficult to tell bilberry from
blueberry because they are so similar in appearance. Closer examination
will reveal that the former has magenta-colored flesh and a strong
fragrance compared to the translucence and mild aroma of the latter.
It's fairly easy to tell them apart while still on the bush, however,
because bilberry fruit emerge singularly, while blueberry fruit appear
in clusters.
Bilberry fruit is abundant in anthocyanosides, a class of plant pigments
with potent antioxidant properties. These pigments also appear to
enhance the function of retinal photoreceptor cells. In fact, World War
II British fighter pilots noticed that eating bilberry jam seemed to
improve their night vision.
Other compounds in the berries inhibit the activity of histamine, which
is why it is reputed to speed the healing of wounds and gastrointestinal
ulcers.
