However, there is not enough research to support the use of bilberry in treating any health condition.
Its use for health purposes dates back to the Middle Ages.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Bilberry contains antioxidants known asanthocyaninsandpolyphenols.
These antioxidants are thought to curb inflammation and protect against diseases associated with oxidative stress.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
There is not enough research to recommend bilberry’s use for treating any health condition.
There has been some preliminary research into bilberry supplementation for preventing eye fatigue.
It also concluded that bilberries might reduce inflammation in people with metabolic syndrome.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you are at risk of developing heart disease.
Venous Disorders
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins resulting from weakened vein walls and valves.
What Are the Side Effects of Bilberry?
Bilberry fruit is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in food.
However, allergic reactions can occur.
Precautions
Bilberry consumed as food is safe in most instances.
If you have an allergy or sensitivity to foods containing tannins, you should avoid bilberry.
Pregnant or nursing people should avoid bilberry extracts, as safety isn’t known.
The safety of long-term use or high doses of bilberry supplements is also uncertain.
Consuming bilberry leaves may be unsafe in high amounts or when taken long-term.
Dosage: How Much Bilberry Should I Take?
There is not enough scientific data to support a recommended dose of bilberry.
Bilberry extract in capsule and tablets come in dosage ranges of 40 to 100 mg.
Speak to your healthcare provider to get personalized advice.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Bilberry?
There is not enough data to know the outcome of taking too much bilberry.
To be safe, only take the recommended amount as directed on the product packaging.
Consult your healthcare provider before consuming bilberry supplements.
Bilberry supplements may also interact with diabetes medications.
Bilberry supplements and bilberry extract are sold in tablets, capsules, and drops.
The berries are also sold dried and as a powder.
Bilberry leaves are made into teas.
confirm the supplement contains the intended berry.
Bilberry should be listed on the supplement facts label asVaccinium myrtillus.
American bilberry is also known as huckleberry.
Bilberry supplements should also be concentrated and standardized.
If possible, look for a supplement with 36% anthocyanosides or 25% anthocyanidins.
Lastly, look for a product with a seal of approval from an independent organization that provides quality testing.
These organizations include USP, ConsumerLab, and NSF.
A seal of approval from one of these organizations does not guarantee the product’s safety or effectiveness.
It can be eaten as a food, and it can be found in supplement form.
Bilberry supplements are marketed to help manage several different health conditions.
However, there is not enough research evidence to support any of these uses.
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