Bilberry

Vaccinium myrtillus

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.