Kamchatka bilberry. Sakhalin region

Kamchatka bilberry (Latin: Vaccinium praestans) is an endemic plant of the Sakhalin region, a wild berry bush from the genus Vaccinium of the Heath family. Locally, this berry is called "klopovka" (lit. "tick's berry"). This unusual Sakhalin berry is distinguished by its large, bright red fruits. The skin is smooth to the touch and glossy. The juicy pulp is edible, but it is usually not consumed raw.

Klopovka shrubs grow near trees in mixed forests and bogs. The plant's shoots can lie on the ground, hidden among grasses and mosses.

The berry picking season is late summer to early autumn. By August, the fruits acquire their characteristic bright red color, and in September, they may darken to a burgundy hue. Berries harvested in August-September have a high concentration of beneficial substances.

Consumption of the berry has contraindications, so consulting a doctor is necessary. The properties of Kamchatka bilberry are unique; it is believed that this berry strengthens health, improves digestion, boosts immunity, normalizes blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, and helps with frequent headaches, rapid heartbeat, and vein thrombosis.

Consumption of Kamchatka bilberry also positively affects the skin and cleanses the body of toxins. However, it should be noted that adults, especially those with gastrointestinal diseases, should consume the berry only in processed form. In raw form, the berry can be eaten only in small quantities. Small children are not given Kamchatka bilberry at all. Older children can eat the berries in small portions.

To fully benefit from Kamchatka bilberry's properties, medicinal decoctions and infusions are made from it. Berry juices and compotes are beneficial for treating alcohol poisoning. A decoction made from the seeds is used to treat rheumatism. The berries are also used to make jams and preserves. The seeds serve as a spice.

The berries are processed by freezing both at home and on an industrial scale. Syrup from Kamchatka bilberry is produced by the leading food industry enterprise in the region, "Northern Star" JSC. Juice is extracted using direct pressing just before the syrup is made. Only berries that grow in ideal ecological conditions in the taiga in the north of the island are used for processing. The region plans to increase the production of unique drinks from Kamchatka bilberry and expand the supply geography.