What specific property do tannins found within the bilberry fruit contribute when traditionally used to manage acute diarrhea?
Answer
Astringent effect
In traditional European medicine, bilberry, frequently utilized in the form of tea made from dried berries or leaves, served as a remedy for gastrointestinal issues. The fruit contains specific compounds, notably tannins, which impart an astringent effect on the digestive tract lining. This astringency is beneficial in cases of acute diarrhea because it helps to firm up loose stools by causing a temporary contraction or shrinking of soft tissues, offering a natural way to manage acute instances of intestinal hyper-secretion or motility.
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