Lowbush Blueberry Extract for Heart & Cholesterol Support
A simple, concentrated blueberry reduction. Gently simmer berries with water, strain, and cook down by half; finish with a touch of maple or agave. Rich in anthocyanins and polyphenols; traditionally used as a small daily tonic alongside a balanced diet.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 28 minutes mins
Total Time 38 minutes mins
Course Extract, Tonic
Cuisine Home apothecary, wild fruit
- 2 cups lowbush blueberries fresh or dried
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave syrup to taste
Simmer: Combine blueberries and water in a small saucepan. Bring just to a gentle simmer and cook 15 minutes, until berries are soft and juicy.
Strain: Pour through a fine strainer into a measuring jug, pressing lightly to collect the juice.
Reduce: Return the juice to the pan and simmer over low heat until reduced by about half.
Finish: Remove from heat, let cool a few minutes, then stir in the maple or agave to taste.
Bottle: Pour into a clean bottle or jar, label, and refrigerate.
Use: Take 1–2 teaspoons daily, straight or stirred into a little water, preferably with a meal. Keep refrigerated and use within 7 days.
- With dried berries: Pre-soak 30 minutes in hot water, then proceed.
- Strength: For a more robust extract, reduce a little further; if too strong, dilute with a splash of water.
- Flavor ideas: Add a thin strip of lemon zest during the reduction; remove before bottling.
About potential effects
Lowbush blueberries are rich in anthocyanins and other polyphenols that are studied for vascular support and favorable effects on blood lipids. Proposed mechanisms include reduced intestinal cholesterol absorption, antioxidant protection against LDL oxidation, modest support of HDL function, and gentle anti-inflammatory activity. This extract is a food-based complement—not a replacement for medical care or prescribed therapy.
Safety
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have cardiovascular disease, are pregnant/breastfeeding, preparing for surgery, or take regular medications (especially anticoagulants/antiplatelets).
- Discontinue if you notice adverse effects.
- Discard if you detect off odors, gas, or mold.