Botanical name: Vaccinium myrtillus
© Steven Foster
Parts used and where grown
A close relative of American blueberry, bilberry grows in northern Europe, Canada, and the United States. The ripe berries are primarily used in modern herbal extracts.
Bilberry has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Ratings | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
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 |
|
 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit. |
|
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The dried berries and leaves of bilberry have been recommended for a wide variety of conditions, including scurvy, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and diabetes. Perhaps the most sound historical application is the use of the dried berries to treat diarrhea. Modern research of bilberry was partly based on its use by British World War II pilots, who noticed that their night vision improved when they ate bilberry jam prior to night bombing raids.1
Active constituents
Anthocyanosides, the flavonoid complex in bilberries, speed the regeneration of rhodopsin, the purple pigment that is used by the rods in the eye for night vision.2 While earlier trials suggested that taking bilberry could benefit people with night blindness,3 4 more recent trials with healthy volunteers have found no effect of bilberry on night vision.5 6 Preliminary human trials conducted in Europe show that bilberry may prevent cataracts,7 and may even help to treat people with mild retinopathies (such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy).8 9 Anthocyanosides are potent antioxidants.10 They support normal formation of connective tissue and strengthen capillaries in the body. Anthocyanosides may also improve capillary and venous blood flow. Bilberry may also prevent blood vessel thickening due to diabetes.11
Bilberry protects cholesterol from oxidizing in test tubes.12 While this action is thought to help prevent atherosclerosis, no human trials have studied whether bilberry may be useful in the regard.
How much is usually taken?
Bilberry herbal extract in capsules or tablets standardized to provide 25% anthocyanosides are typically recommended at 240–600 mg per day.13 Herbalists have traditionally recommended taking 1–2 ml two times per day in tincture form, or 20–60 grams of the fruit daily.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
In recommended amounts, no side effects have been reported with bilberry extract.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with bilberry.
References
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Copyright © 2009 Aisle7 All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
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