Vaccinium uliginosum is native to cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.  In Newfoundland it grows in wet acidic soils on heathland, and in coniferous forests, from sea level up to 3,400 metres (11,200 ft) altitude.  They are rich in antioxidants known as anthocyanins and polyphenols.  Bilberries have been used for medicinal purposes for conditions ranging from eye conditions to diabetes. It is also used for chest pain (angina), hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), circulatory problems, diarrhea, mouth/throat inflammation, and varicose veins. In fact, bilberries contain the highest antioxidant level of any berry!  You can eat them raw or in  jam form. The dried, ripe fruit and leaves are used to make medicine and can be steeped to make tea.