Billberry

Bilberry

(Vaccinium myrtillus)

Bilberry has been reported as beneficial as an antioxidant in ophthalmologic disorders including: myopia, diminished acuity, dark adaptation, macular degeneration, night blindness, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. It has also been shown to offer relief from some vascular disorders including varicose veins, capillary permeability/stability and phlebitis. Has been used internally to provide relief from non-specific, acute diarrhea, and to provide local therapy for mild inflammation of the mucous membranes of mouth and throat.

Ophthalmologic disorders:
Morazonni, 1996

Laplaud et al., 1997

Jayle et al., 1965

Vascular disorders: Bottecchia, 1977

Standardized: 25% standardized extract containing Anthocyanosides 20mg
1 capsule with water 3 x daily

Whole Herb: (Leaf powder) 225 mg
2 capsules with water 3 x daily

Summary:

Bilberry gained popularity during World War II after British pilots reported an improved ability to adjust to glare, increased visual acuity, and improved night vision after consuming Bilberry Jam. Interest in the use of this product as treatment for some age-related vascular and ophthalmologic disorders was generated after investigations revealed a wide variety of pharmacological activities related to antioxidant and collagen-stabilizing effects.

Pharmacology:

Bilberry's antioxidant activity is claimed to exert a stabilizing activity on collagen, a major structural component of connective tissue and has been thought to strengthen cross-linking in addition to stimulating collagen and mucopolysaccharide production. The anthocyanosides contained in Bilberry may decrease capillary permeability and reportedly have inhibited platelet aggregation. Bilberry reportedly inhibits a variety of inflammatory mediators, including leukotrienes, histamine, proteases and prostaglandins. Because of its presumed antioxidant activity and collagen-stabilizing effects, Bilberry has been used in the prevention and/or treatment of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Bilberry's anthocyanosides are thought to aid microvascular blood flow by intensifying arteriolar rhythmic diameter changes.

Theoretical Cautions and Contraindications:

Excessive consumption of dried berries may lead to constipation. Use Bilberry with caution in individuals with diabetes or if pregnant or nursing. Use with caution in individuals with a history of bleeding, hemostatic disorders, or drug-related hemostatic problems. This herb may be contraindicated in individuals with active bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial bleeding). Use with caution in individuals taking anticoagulant medications, including warfarin, aspirin, aspirin-containing products, NSAIDs, or antiplatelet agents (e.g., ticlopidine, clopidogrel, dipyridamole). Use of Bilberry should be discontinued at least two weeks prior to dental or surgical procedures. Mytrillin has hypoglycemic effects; monitor patients for diabetes.

Theoretical Interactions:

The effects of Insulin and oral hypoglycemic drugs may be altered with Bilberry leaf. Long-term consumption of large doses of Bilberry leaves can be poisonous. Doses of 1.5 g/kg/day or higher may be fatal. If the patient is taking anticoagulants, monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding.

References:

Morazzoni P and Bombardelli E, "Vaccinum myrtillus," Fitoterapia, 1996, 67 (1): 3-29.

Laplaud, P.M., et al. "Antioxidant Action of Vaccinum myrtillus Extract on Human Low Density Lipoproteins in Vitro: Initial Observations," Fundam Clin Pharmacol 11:35-40, 1997. Abstract.

Jayle, G. E., et al. "Study Concerning the Action of Anthocyanoside Extracts of Vaccinium myrtillus On Night Vision," Ann Ocul (Paris) 198:56-62, 1965.

Bottecchia, D. et al, "Vaccinium myrtillus," Fitoterapia, 1977, 48:3-8.

Short, R. (ed.), "Clinical Considerations for Specific Herb-Drug Interactions & Potential Adverse Effects of Herbs," Facts and Comparisons The Review of Natural Products, St. Louis (Mo), 1998 Dec; 1-8.

Fetrow, C.W., Avila, J. R., Complementary & Alternative Medicines, Springhouse, PA, 1999.

LaValle, J.B., Krinsky, D.L., Hawkins, E.B, et. al., Natural Therapeutics Pocket Guide, Lexi-Comp, USA, 2000.

Gruenwald, J., Brendler, T., Jaenicke, C., PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Ed., Medical Economics Company, NJ, 2000.

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS (eds.) The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. Austin (TX): American Botanical Council; Boston (MA): Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Material herein is derived from journals, textbooks, news releases, reference guides, etc. Graham Development, Inc. cannot be held responsible for the validity of the information contained in any reference noted herein or for the misuse of information or any adverse effects by use of any stated materials presented. ©2000 Scientific Herbals-unauthorized reproduction of this document is prohibited.

Bilberry Herbal Supplement 225 mg 12.99

Bilberry Standardized Herbal Supplement 19.99

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