Blueberry leaves: medicinal properties and contraindications

Small, black berries of a wild plant called blueberries at first glance seem rather inconspicuous. But the black forest “bead” contains many useful vitamins and minerals. The healing properties of the berries and leaves of the shrub were discovered a long time ago. Herbalists and healers collected wild berries and used to treat a number of diseases. In folk recipes, blueberry leaves are one of the most common components. Decoctions, teas, infusions relieve inflammation, strengthen vision and weakened by the disease of the body, positively affect the work of internal organs. The blueberry leaf is used in the manufacture of cosmetic products.

Chemical composition

Nature endowed with a unique composition of vitamins, micro and macro elements not only blueberries, but also its shoots and leaves.

In the chemical composition of the leaves of the plant are present:

1. A rather large amount of vitamin C and A, a little less - B, PP.
2. Potassium, manganese, zinc, a small amount of calcium and cobalt.
3. Organic and inorganic acids: ascorbic, oxalic, succinic, quinic, oleic, ursolic, and tar.
4. Flavanoids and carotenoids.
5. Anthocyanins are a large concentration of myrtillin.
6. Resins
7. Essential oils that give blueberry leaves a unique aroma.
8. Natural antiseptics are tannins.
9. Arbutin, which has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the genitourinary system.

Thanks to such a set of useful natural components and their compounds, the blueberry leaf has a restorative effect on the body and has healing properties.

Collection and storage

Timely collection and proper harvesting contribute to the full disclosure of the beneficial properties of blueberry leaf.

Time to gather

The favorable period falls in mid-May - June. Young juicy leaves and shoots contain the maximum amount of vitamins and beneficial elements. In late summer and early autumn, the leaves are more mature. In their chemical composition, an increased concentration of tannins is observed. If the collection is carried out to treat a specific disease, then on the basis of this, an appropriate period is selected.

Weather

Leaves are better preserved if collected on a sunny day. It is advisable that in the previous 24 hours there was no precipitation.

Pruning

Blueberry leaves are not torn off with your hands, but carefully cut with scissors. Young cut off with the escape. Autumn collection provides for trimming only leaves.

Drying

After harvesting, the leaves must be filled with water and left for several minutes. This method of cleaning helps to quickly get rid of dust, insects and dirt. Clean leaves are laid out for several hours on a paper towel, getting rid of excess moisture.

Dry leaves should be in a ventilated room or outdoors. The main thing is to choose a place where the sun's rays do not fall. Leaves on a branch are more convenient to dry in limbo. Single raw materials are best laid out on paper.

Storage

Dried blueberry leaves are placed in a linen bag with ties or a glass (ceramic) jar with a tight lid.Store at room temperature in a dry and dark place. Leaves do not lose their unique properties within 2 years after harvest.

Blueberry leaves are used not only in dried form. They can be placed in the freezer, be sure to rinse it before. In the freezer, the leaves do not lose their beneficial properties for 12 months.

The healing properties of blueberry leaves

Endowed with nature with a large volume of nutrients, the blueberry leaf has a number of healing properties:

1. Antibactericidal - contribute to the elimination of harmful bacteria and microorganisms from the body.
2. Hypoglycemic - normalize blood sugar.
3. Antimicrobial - used to reduce inflammatory and purulent processes.
4. Diuretics - In combination with antimicrobials, they help in the treatment of cystitis.
5. Antiseptic - indispensable for kidney diseases.
6. Disinfecting and healing - contribute to the fastest healing of wounds and burns.

Anti-inflammatory effect is achieved with the help of tannins. In combination with other elements, they help to cope with disorders of the digestive system.

The healing effect of blueberry leaves is difficult to overestimate. As part of tinctures, decoctions, teas, this herbal component benefits not only adults, but also the children's body, as well as women during pregnancy.

For women

The vitamin-mineral complex, which is part of blueberry leaves, helps the female body cope with a number of gynecological diseases. Douching with a decoction relieves the symptoms of thrush, relieves inflammation in the vagina.

Elements present in the chemical composition of this plant have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair, and nails. Tea with blueberry leaves relieves swelling, removes harmful substances from the body, improving the general condition.

For men

The flavanoids that make up blueberry leaves have a beneficial effect on the male reproductive system, improving its function and reducing the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Tinctures, teas improve the functioning of the urinary system. A cup of healing tea will help relieve muscle tension and general fatigue for men who work at high physical loads.

During pregnancy

The female body during pregnancy needs constant replenishment of the vitamin-mineral complex. Blueberry leaves contain a lot of vitamin C, A, which have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the immune system, the visual organs of a future mother.

Decoction and tea support the body of a pregnant woman, increasing hemoglobin, reducing swelling of the limbs, and helping to remove excess fluid from the body. Daily intake facilitates the general condition of toxicosis, and helps strengthen the cardiovascular system of women and children.

Take drinks made from blueberry leaves should only be after consultation with your doctor and no allergy to blueberries.

For kids

The healing properties of blueberry leaves is an excellent tool to strengthen the children's immune system, especially with regard to the period of the flu epidemic.

Green tea, prepared with the addition of blueberries, leaves and branches of this plant, has a calming effect on the nervous system of the child, increases mental activity.

The broth can be used to rinse the mouth and throat. It relieves inflammation, promotes wound healing, has a disinfecting effect in stomatitis, gingivitis.

Therapeutic compounds are not recommended for children under 4 years of age, and allergies.

Blueberry leaves in folk medicine

The healing properties of blueberry leaf have been proven by more than one generation. Traditional healers have created quite a few recipes that have an effective effect in the treatment of a large number of diseases.

Diabetes

Blueberry leaves, like berries, help lower blood sugar levels. The plant is endowed with such properties due to the presence of a large percentage of myrtillin in the composition. It, in combination with other useful elements, increases the receptor sensitivity of cells to insulin: the body begins to expend glucose more efficiently, and its content in the blood decreases.

Decoction (diabetes I-II degree)
Composition:

• 20 g of blueberry leaves;
• 20 g nettle foliage (fresh);
• 30 g of young dandelion leaves;
• 250 ml of water.

Brew herbal pick. After 15 minutes, strain. Take 1 tbsp. 2-3 times a day. Reception of the decoction should begin only after the approval of the attending physician and in the complex drug therapy.

Anemia

Iron, which is part of the chemical composition of blueberry leaves, replenishes the supply of this element in the body. Therefore, decoctions are often included in the complex treatment of anemia.

Broth recipe
7 tbsp blueberry leaves pour water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Cool the broth. Take 100 ml 2 times a day for half an hour before eating. Treatment is cyclical: the duration of admission is 2 months. Then take a break for 30 days. After taking the broth, carry out the same way.

Immunity increase

Blueberry leaf tea is an excellent way to strengthen the immune system. This is due to the content of a large amount of vitamin C and other beneficial elements in the plant. Drinking should be started in early autumn (spring).

Tea Recipe:

• rosehip;
• elecampane root;
• blueberry leaves;
• raspberry twigs;
• oregano;
• echinacea.

Take the same amount of herbs. Add to them 2 branches of raspberries and, pouring boiling water, leave alone for ¼ hours.

With eye diseases

Blueberry leaves along with berries, stimulating the blood circulation of the retina, improve vision and prevent the onset of the disease. This plant has the ability to increase the production of protein and melatonin. These elements reduce stress and eye fatigue from long work at the computer and driving. They help adapt to people working in the dark.

Infusion that strengthens eyesight and relieves fatigue
Components:

• blueberry leaves (dry) - 1 tablespoon;
• water - 250 ml.

Grind the leaves, pour 1 tbsp. hot water and insist about 40 minutes. Strained infusion to take 50 ml 3 times a day.

This concentrated solution is also used for lotions. After a hard day, he removes stress, removes redness. It is enough to infuse cotton pads with infusion, attach to eyes and leave for 5-10 minutes.

Oral diseases

An infusion of blueberry leaves has an antiseptic and analgesic effect in periodontal disease, thrush, and gum disease. Use it for rinsing. Anthocyanins in combination with tannins disinfect the oral cavity, relieve unpleasant astringent sensations.

Periodontal infusion recipe
0.5 tbsp. pour dry blueberry leaves into a thermos and pour boiling water (0.75 L). Let it brew (up to 20 minutes). Rinse your mouth several times a day (as often as possible). Repeat the procedure for up to 7 days.

Gynecological diseases

For the treatment of female diseases, decoctions and infusions of blueberry leaves are applied externally.

A decoction for the treatment of candidiasis
Freshly picked or dried leaves (50 g) should be steamed with boiling water (500 ml). Leave the broth until the grass settles to the bottom of the vessel. Strain and use for douching. You can carry out the procedure up to 5 times a day. Blueberry decoction will reduce inflammation and relieve unpleasant itching. It has hemostatic, antiseptic properties.

For weight loss

Healing formulations made from blueberry leaves improve metabolism, speeding up metabolism and reducing the need for carbohydrates.Blueberry tea reduces the need for sweets and helps control appetite during the diet.

Recipe number 1
Composition:

• blueberry leaves - 1 tbsp;
• nettle leaves - 4 tbsp;
• black elderberry inflorescences - 1/2 tbsp;
• St. John's wort grass - 3 tbsp;
• peppermint - 3 tablespoons

Mix all the herbs and pour in 1500 ml of water. Boil for 10 minutes. Drink 3-4 times a day before meals.

Recipe number 2
Composition:

• blueberry leaves - 3 parts;
• St. John's wort - 2 parts;
• dogrose - 2 parts;
• bone mass - 1 part;
• meadowsweet (leaves) - 1 part.

Brew herbal tea and drink like tea. It not only improves the digestive process, but also helps maintain the body in good shape throughout the day.

Gout, Arthritis

The acids contained in the blueberry leaf relieve joint pain and inflammation.

Joint pain relief
Composition:

• 1 tbsp dried blueberries;
• 50 g of leaves;
• 400 ml of water;
• 10 g of honey.

Boil blueberries with leaves for a short period of time. Let the infusion cool. To improve the taste, add honey. Drink 2-3 times a day.

You can make a compress from the broth.

Pancreatitis

Essential oils simulate the separation of bile, preventing its accumulation, improve blood circulation in the walls of the pancreas. Anthocyanins have a positive effect on the work of the internal organ, accelerating the process of splitting fats.

Broth recipe
3 tbsp blueberries and 20 g of dried foliage pour 400 ml of boiling water. Leave the infusion for 4 hours. Drink 20-25 minutes before each meal.

Diarrhea

The binding effect on the intestines is exerted by tannins. The antibacterial properties of the plant remove toxic substances, toxins from the body, which provoked poisoning and indigestion.

To prepare the broth, it is advisable to use leaves collected in early autumn or late summer. They contain more tannins than in young foliage.

Broth from dysentery
50 g of dried leaves combine with 20 g of berries. Boil over moderate heat. Preferably longer - up to 20-30 minutes. Strain. You can drink in warm or cold form. Reception is carried out up to 5 times a day.

Hemorrhoids

The healing properties of blueberry leaf contribute to the restoration of blood circulation in the vessels of the rectum, reduce inflammation and heal microcracks. Internal intake of infusions stops hemorrhoids bleeding.

Drinking infusion
2 tbsp crushed blueberry leaves pour 1 tbsp. hot water. After the infusion has cooled, strain. Drink a decoction 1-2 times a day. Reception is repeated every other day. The infusion has an astringent effect and relieves pain.

Decoction for enemas
For douching, a broth with a high concentration is suitable: 1 tbsp. pour boiling water 4 tbsp. dry or young leaves. It is better to grind them beforehand. Boil and pour into a thermos (draw broth into an enema warm). After 3 hours of infusion, it can be used for douching.

Skin diseases

In the complex treatment of eczema, dermatitis, skin lesions, a decoction or infusion of blueberry leaves is used. It has anti-inflammatory and healing effects.

Healing Infusion Recipe
Composition:

• ¼ Art. blueberry leaves;
• 2 tbsp celandine;
• ½ tbsp plantain leaves;
• 1 liter of purified water.

Place all ingredients in a pan. Fill with water and put on the stove. Boil the broth for 5 minutes. Cool and strain through cheesecloth, folded in several layers.

Apply externally in the form of lotions until the wound is completely healed.

Infusion with purulent dermatitis
In 1 liter of mineral water, boil 50 g of dried blueberry leaves. Filter the cooled infusion. Wet cotton pads and apply compresses to ulcers. Keep no more than 20 minutes.

Types of healing compounds

Blueberry leaves are used to make medicinal infusions. They have a general strengthening effect, contribute to the improvement of the intestines, reduce the level of acidity, normalize heart rhythms. Decoctions of blueberry leaves remove toxins from the body, toxins, enriching it with antioxidants. They are used for douching with inflammation of the female organs.Tea from the leaves of this plant reduces appetite, has a tonic effect on the body. Tinctures are used as a rinse for infections of the oral cavity, colds. Decoctions and tinctures have an antiseptic effect and contribute to the healing of damage, so lotions are made of them for burns, purulent wounds.

Infusion

The largest concentration of vitamins, essential oils and acids that make up blueberry leaves is found in broth. It is recommended to take it not for preventive, but only for therapeutic purposes. The most effective drink for anemia, disorders in the thyroid gland. People prone to allergies should take it with extreme caution.

Vitamin
Pour 70 g of dried blueberry leaves into a container. Pour 2 tbsp. boiling water. Cover the broth and let stand for 60–80 minutes. Filter through gauze. After infusion, drink 30 ml.

Tincture

Tincture made from blueberry leaves not only has a great taste, but also retains the beneficial properties contained in the raw materials. It helps to reduce the risk of colds, improves appetite, and helps to cope with depression.

Recipe for an alcohol tincture of blueberry leaves with citrus
Composition:

• fresh blueberry leaves - 40 pcs.;
• sugar - 1500 g;
• blueberry branches - 5 pcs.;
• purified water - 1000 ml;
• vodka - 1700 ml;
• lemon - 1 pc.;
• orange - 1 pc.;
• cinnamon - 1 stick.

Leaves and branches of blueberries pour water. After a few minutes, remove and dry with a towel or napkin. Place in a pan by adding a cinnamon stick and grated lemon and orange zest. Pour the ingredients with water and place on the stove. After boiling, boil for 10 minutes. Add sugar to the hot syrup and mix until crystals are completely dissolved. Pour the cooled infusion into a glass container and add vodka. Cover and place in a dark place. After 2 months, strain the tincture. Then put on another 30 days.

Homemade tincture of blueberry leaves is used internally and externally. It is suitable for compresses, lotions.

Alcohol tincture of blueberry leaves with dermatitis
60 g of dry or fresh blueberry leaves pour 200 ml of alcohol. Put in a dark place for 6 days. Wipe problem areas of the skin with such a tincture. It has an antiseptic and drying effect. Store in a glass container with a lid, preferably in the refrigerator.

Decoction

Decoctions are prepared from blueberry leaves. They improve brain activity, have an analgesic and calming effect. External use of decoctions is recommended as a natural antibacterial agent for burns, ulcers, abscesses, problem skin in adolescents.

Anesthetic decoction
40 g of leaves are placed in a stewpan and pour 150 ml of hot boiled water. Leave the leaves in a water bath for 20 minutes. Remove and cover the stewpan with a lid. Leave on for 10 minutes. After the allotted time, strain. Take 30 ml 2 hours after a meal.

In case of poisoning
Ingredients:

• blueberry leaves - 30 g;
• chamomile - 20 g;
• cinquefoil roots - 20 g;
• water - 250 ml.

All components are placed in a small container, pour water and put on fire. Bringing the herbal broth to a boil, reduce the intensity of the fire and cook for 5-7 minutes. In the cooled form, filter the medicinal composition.

To completely remove toxins from the body and stop diarrhea, the broth should be drunk constantly during the first 24 hours of the disease. The next day, the broth is taken 4 times a day. Continue treatment for 3 days.

Tea

Blueberry leaves in tea give the drink an additional aroma, give it an excellent taste and smell. Such a drink has a beneficial effect on the body: in the cold period of time it strengthens the immune system, on hot days it perfectly quenches thirst.

Blueberry leaves can be brewed both independently and used in combination with raspberry, currant leaves and sprigs or added during brewing of tea green (black) leaves.

Classic Blueberry Tea
For cooking you will need:

• blueberry leaves - 6 pcs.;
• blueberries - 4 tsp

Leaves and berries placed in a teapot. Insist in hot яч boiled water ingredients for ¼ hour. It is advisable to drink tea slightly sweetened. Honey (sugar) contributes to a greater disclosure of the taste of blueberries.

Immunity strengthening
Composition:

• blueberry leaves - 5 pcs.;
• sprig of raspberries - 2 pcs.
• currant leaves - 4 pcs.

Pour 0.5 l of boiling water over all ingredients. Leave to insist ¼ hours. This tea tastes good and has a wonderful aroma.

Refreshing
Composition:

• 2 tbsp green tea;
• 2-3 mint leaves;
• 4 blueberry leaves.

Pour boiling tea and blueberry leaves. Leave on for 3 minutes. After add the mint. Leave for another 5-10 minutes. This tea is especially good when cold.

Application in cosmetology

Blueberry leaves are one of the strongest antioxidants. This contributes to the use of the herbal component in cosmetics, which have a rejuvenating effect, and tighten the contours of the face. The effect is enhanced by essential oils, a set of organic acids, vitamins and beneficial macro- and microelements that make up the plant.

The healing and antiseptic properties eliminate acne, prevent the appearance of acne in adolescence. Useful active substances nourish the skin, give elasticity and a natural complexion.

Masks containing blueberry leaf:

• stimulate blood circulation;
• eliminate puffiness and bags under the eyes;
• smooth facial wrinkles;
• have protective properties from the effects of temperature changes on the skin of the face;
• tone up;
• reduce inflammation;
• nourish and nourish dry skin with vitamins.

Baths with blueberry leaves have a relaxing effect, help tighten the skin on problem areas. This plant is used in cellulite control products.

Mask for narrowing pores

Chop blueberry leaves. Add mashed fresh berries. Mix with wheat flour. As a result, the mixture should have a consistency of sour cream of medium density. Hold the mask for 10 minutes. It is advisable to carry out the procedure in the evening, before going to bed.

Blueberry Cream Anti-Aging Mask

Composition:

• 100 g of berries;
• 3 tbsp shredded young foliage;
• 20 g cream (low-fat).

Beat the ingredients in a blender. Apply a nutritious mass to the face. Leave on for 20 minutes.

For dry, aging skin

Composition:

• 10 pieces. berries;
• egg yolk;
• 4 blueberry leaves;
• 3 drops of wheat germ oil.

Before preparing a mask of leaves, make a strong decoction. Grind the berries with a spoon (this leaves more juice). Mix 2 tbsp. infusion of leaves with yolk and berries. Add oil to the mixture. Hold for 15 minutes. Repeat the procedure every 10 days.

Teenage Skin Lotion

Take the same number of leaves of blueberries, St. John's wort, plantain and a string. Add a few calendula flowers. Brew a strong broth. Strain. Pour into containers for freezing ice and put in the freezer. Wipe your face with ice cubes in the morning, after removing makeup and before bedtime.

Herbal Firming Bath

It will be required:

• lily petals - 50 g;
• birch leaves - 30 g;
• blueberry leaves - 70 g;
• dandelion leaves - 5 pcs.;
• lemon oil - 3 drops;
• linden inflorescences - 20 g.

All herbs are placed in a thermos and pour 1 tbsp. hot water. Let stand herbal collection for 2 hours. Strain and add lemon oil. Pour into prepared water. Take a bath for 10-15 minutes.

Blueberry leaves have a beneficial effect on the hair. Tannins help in the fight against seborrhea and dandruff. Nicotinic acid in combination with a vitamin complex helps strengthen hair follicles and eliminate damage from the use of styling products.

Bath for dermatitis and psoriasis

Would need:

• celandine;
• blueberry leaves;
• coltsfoot;
• succession;
• chamomile.

Take all herbs in equal proportions. Brew a concentrated broth. Insist in a thermos for an hour and a half. Before adding to water, it is recommended to strain through a fine sieve. Add to the bath only in a warm form. After the procedure, the inflammatory process decreases. Frequent applications prevent the appearance of new psoriatic rashes.

Herbal conditioner for oily hair

Ingredients:

• vinegar (wine) - 1 tbsp .;
• rosemary - 15 g;
• mint - 20 g;
• blueberry leaves - 40 g;
• sage - 30 g;
• nettle - 10 g.

Pour herbs into a glass jar. Pour vinegar. Close cover tightly. After 14 days, the rinse aid is suitable for use. Before use, dilute the infusion with water 1: 2. Apply after each hair wash, not more than 3 times a week.

Mask against split ends

Composition:

• 1 tbsp daisies;
• 3 tbsp blueberry leaves;
• 2 tbsp St. John's wort
• 2 ml of linseed, burdock and coconut oils.

Herbs insist on oils for a week, placing them in a glass container and closing hermetically with a lid. Put the vial in a dark place without access to sunlight. Apply, evenly distributing with a comb along the entire length of the hair, starting from the roots. The duration of the oil-grass mask is 40 minutes. After a while, wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo under warm water.

Contraindications

External use of decoctions and tinctures from blueberry leaves has no contraindications. But to use medicinal infusions, teas and decoctions inside is with caution.

Despite a number of useful properties, the use of berries and leaves of this plant can adversely affect the general condition and health of certain categories of people.

With extreme caution, people should be treated with medicinal formulations:

• with gallstone disease;
• diseases of the stomach, accompanied by an increased level of acidity;
• chronic pancreatitis and cholecystitis;
• poor blood coagulation.

Use for the preparation of decoctions, teas, tinctures of ripe blueberry leaves is not recommended for people with chronic constipation. They contain a rather high percentage of tannins, which can further aggravate existing disorders with stool. Do not be treated with blueberry leaves and people with pathologies of the pancreas.

Extreme caution should be taken when taking infusions for allergy sufferers. This medicinal composition contains the largest percentage of essential oils that can cause an allergic reaction.

Broths, tinctures, teas with blueberry leaves will not harm the body if, during treatment or prevention of diseases, adhere to the recommended norms of use and observe the cyclical nature of the intake.

Interesting facts about blueberries

1. A blueberry bush usually reaches a height of 1.5 m, but a dwarf species grows in the tundra, with a height of only 5 cm.
2. Color is always black and saturated. When the berry is dirty, it may seem like it is blue, but washed it always takes on a natural color.
3. In Krasnovishersk (Russia), a blueberry festival takes place every year.
4. Scientists from America argue that those who want to stay young, healthy and beautiful for a long time need to include blueberries in their diet.
5. A postage stamp depicting a branch of a blueberry bush was printed in small print runs and issued in the USSR in 1964.
6. Often black berry is used as a natural dye. Once upon a time, artists used blueberries to make purple and violet paints.
7. In Ukraine, in the village of Guklivy, a monument to blueberries was erected.
8. The favorite berry of Canadians is considered to be blueberries.
9. Wild berry and decoctions of its leaves must be present in the daily diet of astronauts.
10. Like most berries, blueberries tend to deteriorate quickly. Therefore, it must be washed right before use, and not in advance.
11. In the distant past, almost all healers and shamans especially liked to use blueberries for medicinal purposes in Russia.They believed that the berry has miraculous properties and promotes a speedy recovery.

Photo of blueberry leaves