Newsletter #17
BILBERRY FRUIT
The "dark berry" offers a wealth of healing potential
Bilberry (Vaccinuium myrtillus) belongs to a large family of plants that have provided humans with edible berries, mostly common blueberry (V. corymbosum). Reported in the ancient medical work of Pliny and others, bilberry also appears to have been favored by medieval herbalists. Its most noted medicinal use in recent times was the common consumption of bilberry jam by World War II pilots to improve their night vision on night missions. Currently included in the pharmacopoeias of Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and other European countries, bilberry is often dispensed for its antioxidant activity and anthocyanin/flavonoid content.
VASCULAR HEALTH
Based on clinical evidence, bilberry fruit extract decreases vascular permeability through an effect on vascular connective tissue (specifically by protecting collagen and elastin). It can also decrease capillary fragility and a propensity to bruising. As a vasorelaxant, this extract also may reduce vascular permeability caused by hypertension.
At least four observational studies report the use of bilberry fruit to treat venous insufficiency from deep vein thrombosis or varicose veins in the lower limbs. Preclinical studies show that it may also inhibit platelet aggregation.
EYE HEALTH
The use of bilberry fruit extract for the treatment and prevention of visual problems has been widely investigated. In one randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled partial crossover study, 79 percent of patients with diabetes or high blood pressure showed improvement following treatment with bilberry extract.
While research shows a significant positive effect of short-term improvement (up to 2 hours after taking bilberry extract) on vision in reduced light among people with impaired night vision, three recent trials failed to show similar effects in healthy adults. One small study found significant improvement in light sensitivity from anthocyanins in bilberry, and this fruit extract has been shown to improve myopia (near-sightedness) in another study.
Bilberry extract may be of benefit in macular degeneration, due to its confirmed antioxidant activity and the fact that other antioxidant supplements show potential benefit in this disease. Since this is such a prevalent disease and current medical interventions are unable to stop the degeneration of the macula, further research on bilberry's potential in slowing macular degeneration is warranted.
OTHER BENEFITS
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found bilberry extract significantly reduces primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), compared with a placebo. After a month of treatment, the extract was also shown to offer significant improvement in the pain, itching, and burning associated with hemorrhoids. Bilberry anthocyanins also significantly reduce edema and itching in another hemorrhoid study.
Preoperative treatment with a proprietary bilberry product reduced both intra- and post-operative bleeding in 181 patients (25 of whom were children). Additional study is needed on bilberry's potential in preventing and treating gastric ulcer, post-operative inflammation and hemorrhage, and its potential anticancer activity.
SUBSTANTIATION FOR STRUCTURE AND FUCTION CLAIMS
Based on preclinical literature, bilberry preparation may help stabilize
vascular connective tissue by protecting collagen and elastin. Bilberry anthocyanins have an affinity for membrane phospholipids, including those that make up a signigicant portion of the retina, and affect the activity of retinal enzymes. In vitro studies show that bilberry possesses marked antioxidant activity.
Safety
According to the Botanical Safety Handbook of the American Herbal Products Association, bilberry is a Class 1 herb, which can be safely consumed when used appropriately.
Side Effects
A few minor side effects, including gastric pain and nausea, have been noted in 4 percent of 2,295 patients taking one commercial bilberry extract. Physician efficacy was rated good or very good in 60 percent of cases.
Contraindicatins
None cited in the literature.
INTERACTINS
Since anthocyanins and tannins are common components in the diet, there should be minimal concern about interactions of bilberry fruit and fruit extract conventional medications. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) has been reported to potentiate the in vitro vascular smooth muscle effect of bilberry.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
The few studies available report no adverse effects for women during pregnancy. While data on this herb's use during lactation are lacking, the experience of modern practitioners and high level of safety with bilberry as a food make adverse effects unlikely.
DOSAGES
Dried berrya: 20 to 60 g daily
Decoction: 1 cup several times daily
Powdered extract: 160 to 480 mg daily in divided doses.
Selected Sources
*"Bilberry Fruit (Vaccinium myrtillus L.)" by John Beutler, PhD
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NATURAL DENTIST
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PRICES GOOD THROUGH JUNE 30,2002