Bilberry Extract
(Vaccinium myrtillus)

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• The European bilberry is related to the North American blueberry. Bilberry fruit contains anthocyanosides, caffeic acid (chlorogenic acid), flavonoids, and tannins.

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• None.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Fruit.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 50 mg to 500 mg of fruit extract (standardized to 25% anthocyanosides).

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• Bruising
• Cancer
• Cataracts
• Coronary heart disease
• Retinopathy
• Ulcers
• Varicose veins
• Wound healing

COMMENTS

• Bilberry also has antioxidant properties. Most recent research shows that bilberry fruit may not improve night vision, but does show improvements in pupillary dynamics. Bilberry leaf may be helpful with diabetes.

CAUTIONS

• None significant with the fruit.