Bilberry Fruit

Clinical Summary

 Derived from the fruit of the tree. Numerous human studies suggest that bilberry anthocyanosides prevent diabetic retinopathy and improve visual acuity and retinal function. In vitro studies suggest bilberry has anticancer activities. Products should be standardized to 25% anthocyanosides. Coumarins present in bilberry may interact with platelets and have an additive effect with blood thinners. No adverse reactions have been reported. Bilberry fruit should not be confused with bilberry leaf, which may cause hypoglycemia.
 

Purported uses

• Cancer prevention
• Cataracts
• Circulatory disorders
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Diarrhea
• Glaucoma
• Hemorrhoids
• Macular degeneration
• Varicose veins
• Visual acuity

Mechanism of action

The anthocyanins in bilberry contribute to most of its pharmacological activities. Anthocyanin has anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, and antioxidant effects. It has demonstrated free radical scavenging and inhibition of CAMP phosphodiesterase actions. Extract of bilberry can inhibit human leukemia cells and human colon carcinoma cells growth through the induction of apoptosis . In vitro and in vivo clinical studies show inhibition of platelet aggregation and stimulation of vascular prostacyclin. Bilberry anthocyanins regenerate rhodopsin and are indicated in treatment of poor night vision, muscular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts.