Description
Native to Eurasia and North America, the dark blue berries and leaves of the bilberry bush have been used medicinally for eye conditions, diabetes, diarrhea, mouth inflammation, urinary issues, and scurvy prevention (thanks to their high vitamin C content) since the Middle Ages.
Research has shown bilberries are high in antioxidants and are useful for reducing inflammation, particularly in the eyes, including the retina and small capillaries. It’s often used to improve night vision and reduce light sensitivity and eye fatigue. Some have even used it to help cataracts, varicose veins and other conditions, like atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in the arteries).
Why We Love Bilberry, the eye and nerve supporter
At the clinic, we often use bilberry to help Bartonella patients with their visual disturbances. It’s particularly common for them to struggle with ocular symptoms, such as light sensitivity, eye fatigue, eye pain, nerve pain, floaters, and others. Bilberry can add excellent immune and antioxidant support and offers extra protection for nerves and eyes. It’s also healthy and protective for vasculature and small capillaries, especially the ones found in the eyes.
References
† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- Kamiya K, Kobashi H, Fujiwara K, Ando W, Shimizu K. Effect of Fermented Bilberry Extracts on Visual Outcomes in Eyes with Myopia: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Published April 13, 2013; 29(3):356-359. Accessed January 18, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1089/jop.2012.0098. Accessed January 18, 2022.
- Kosehira M, Machida N, Kitaichi N. A 12-Week-Long Intake of Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) Improved Objective Findings of Ciliary Muscle Contraction of the Eye: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Comparison Trial. Nutrients. Published February 25, 2020; 12(3):600. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12030600. Accessed January 18, 2022.
- Osada H, Okamoto T, Kawashima H, Toda E, Miyake S, Nagai N, Kobayashi S, Tsubota K, Ozawa Y. Neuroprotective effect of bilberry extract in a murine model of photo-stressed retina. PLOS ONE. Published June 1, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0178627. Accessed January 18, 2022.
Warnings
Always be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new nutritional supplement when pregnant or nursing. For children, we recommend speaking with your child's pediatrician regarding proper dosing. Store away from children.
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