Home
Licencing - Pricing/Terms
Health Guides
A-Z of Herbs
Expert Panel
Ask an Expert
BMI Calculator
Products
Architecture
Project Management
Site Management
Marketing
Web Design
Doctors
Dentists
Pharmacists
Optometrists
Physios
How to contact us
Your New Zealand
Web Site Directory |
|
|
All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Bilberry
|
Vaccinium myrtillus
Certain active components of this herb (anthocyanosides) have been found to prevent collagen destruction, which occurs when there is inflammation present. Collagen, making up of 30% of the body's protein, is the major constituent of the skin, bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons and provides the structures for other tissues.
These active components strenghten collagen by promoting synthesis of collagen and directly reinforce collagen fibres, at the same time, they block the production of inflammatory agents and prevent their destructive effects on the collagen. These components also relaxes smooth muscles and help to prevent blood clotting.They are antioxidants as well, and act by preventing free- radical damages.
Studies have shown that this herb can assist in the treatment of varicose veins, spider veins, haemorrhoid and gingivitis, and inflammatory diseases of the joints. Bilberry has been recommended for eye problems since ancient times. It helps to strengthen capillaries and improve blood flow, this in turn benefits the eyes, especially in cases of poor vision.
It helps to prevent the vascular and nervous complications of diabetes; cataract formation, glaucoma and degeneration of the retina of the eyes, and night blindness.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
|
|
|
