What is bilberry used for? Explore the potential benefits, risks, and scientific evidence behind this popular supplement. Learn about bilberry’s uses, side effects, precautions, and interactions.

The Versatile Bilberry: An Overview

Bilberry, also known as European blueberry or whortleberry, is a shrub native to northern regions of Europe and Asia, as well as parts of North America. Its dark, flavorful berries bear a striking resemblance to blueberries, but with their own unique properties and potential health benefits.

Bilberry has a long history of traditional medicinal use, dating back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, it has been employed to address a variety of conditions, from diarrhea and mouth inflammation to urinary problems and diabetes. During World War II, British pilots even believed that consuming bilberry jam could improve their night vision.

The Science Behind Bilberry

While the traditional uses of bilberry are well-documented, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for various health conditions is somewhat limited. The berry and its leaves contain a high concentration of polyphenols called anthocyanins, which have been the focus of numerous studies exploring their potential health benefits.

Potential Benefits of Bilberry

• Night Vision: A small Japanese study involving 88 office workers suggested that a bilberry extract may help alleviate eye fatigue, hinting at a possible role in supporting night vision.
• Gum Health: A clinical study with 24 participants found that consuming bilberries may help reduce gum inflammation and bleeding.
• Muscle Recovery: A small study with 21 people indicated that drinking bilberry juice before and after a half-marathon may lead to temporary increases in muscle soreness and inflammation in recreational runners.
• Cardiovascular Health: Bilberry’s high concentration of antioxidant-rich anthocyanins has led some researchers to explore its potential benefits for conditions like atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Safety and Precautions

Bilberry fruit is generally considered safe when consumed in typical food amounts or as a short-term supplement. However, bilberry leaves may be unsafe if taken orally in high doses or for extended periods. Additionally, bilberry may interact with certain medications, such as the cancer drug erlotinib (Tarceva) and antidiabetic drugs, as well as medications that affect blood clotting.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of bilberry during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Consuming amounts typically found in food is generally considered safe, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using bilberry supplements.

Dosage and Interactions

There is no established safe or effective dosage for bilberry supplements. The appropriate dose may vary depending on the intended use and the individual’s health condition. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking bilberry, especially if you are currently taking any medications, as it may interact with certain drugs.

Interactions to Consider

• Erlotinib (Tarceva): Bilberry may interact with this cancer medication.
• Antidiabetic drugs: Bilberry may interact with medications used to manage diabetes.
• Blood-thinning medications: Bilberry may affect the blood-clotting process and should be used with caution by individuals taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.

Navigating the Bilberry Landscape

Given the limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of bilberry for various health conditions, it’s important to approach its use with caution and in consultation with a healthcare provider. While the traditional uses of bilberry are well-documented, more high-quality research is needed to confirm its potential benefits and establish safe and effective dosages.

Taking Charge of Your Health

When considering any complementary or alternative health approaches, it’s crucial to have open and honest discussions with your healthcare provider. Together, you can make informed decisions about the appropriate use of bilberry and other supplements to support your overall well-being.

Trusted Resources for More Information

For the most up-to-date and reliable information on bilberry and other complementary health approaches, consider consulting the following trusted resources:

• NCCIH Clearinghouse: Provides information on complementary health approaches, including bilberry.
• PubMed: A comprehensive database of scientific and medical literature, which can be a valuable source for research on bilberry and its potential uses.
• Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health (NIH): Offers resources and fact sheets on a variety of dietary supplements, including bilberry.

Conclusion

Bilberry, with its long history of traditional use and intriguing scientific potential, remains a topic of ongoing research and interest. While the current evidence supporting its efficacy for various health conditions is limited, the berry’s high concentration of antioxidant-rich anthocyanins continues to spark curiosity about its possible benefits. As with any complementary or alternative health approach, it’s crucial to approach bilberry use with caution, open communication with healthcare providers, and a commitment to staying informed through reliable sources.