Cranberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Other names: Bilberry, Blackberry, Blackberry, Blueberry, Bilberry, Bilberry, Blueberry
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
The bilberry, otherwise known by the names blackberry, black strawberry, blackberry, chicory, bilberry, bilberry or blueberry, is a species of plant in the heath family. This shrub grows to a height of between 30 and 60 cm and is typical of the northern hemisphere, where it grows mainly in forests and peat bogs. It is popular for its specific, intense flavour and dark blue to black colour. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre.
The cranberry blueberry, due to its specific taste and high vitamin content, is widely used in the food industry. Its berries are eaten fresh, dried, but they are also used to make jams, juices, wines, liqueurs and syrups. Dried blueberries can be used as an ingredient in baking - in flour, cakes or muffins. They are also used to make blueberry jelly, which is used in various desserts or as an accompaniment to meats. In medicine, blueberries are used to improve vision, for diarrhoea or as an antiseptic. The cosmetics industry is also worth mentioning, where blueberries are used for the production of face masks, creams and balms for skin care, as they have strong antioxidant properties.