Every summer, just as the garden hits its lush peak, the blueberry bushes along our back fence begin to ripen. It’s a quiet kind of excitement—baskets are grabbed, children called, and the rhythm of picking begins. We harvest early, before the sun gets too high, moving slowly in the stillness of June's heat. The birds keep us company. The harvest is shared.
Most years, the blueberries end up in jam, in pancakes, or tucked into the freezer. But this year, I’ve been thinking more deeply about blueberry as an herbal ally—not just a seasonal treat, but a gentle, nourishing plant with a long history of use.
Blueberry as Medicine
Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) are rich in flavonoids—especially anthocyanins, the compounds that give them their deep blue color and many of their health-supportive properties. They’re known for supporting:
- Cardiovascular health
- Cognitive function and memory
- Eye health, especially night vision
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support
But it’s not just the berries that hold value. Herbalists also use blueberry leaves, often as a tea or infusion, to support blood sugar balance and urinary tract health.
Simple Ways to Work with Blueberry
If you have access to fresh blueberries—whether from your own garden, a local U-pick farm, or your farmers market—there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into your herbal practice:
- Dry them gently and add to tea blends
- Make a tincture with the fresh fruit (or leaves)
- Create a blueberry-basil vinegar (my current favorite) to brighten salads and preserve the season
Want to Go Deeper?
Over on The Self-Taught Herbalist, I’ve put together a few printable tools for those wanting to explore blueberry more intentionally:
- A Field Journal page to record your own observations and experiences
- A recipe card for blueberry-basil vinegar
- A few journal prompts to guide personal reflection with this plant
They’re available now for my Apprentices—but even if you’re not a subscriber, I hope this inspires you to slow down, pick a few berries, and notice the small miracles growing quietly around you.
This post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.