Lynn Smythe
Herbs at a Glance - Bilberry
October 24th 2007 03:30
Latin Name—Vaccinium myrtillus
What It Is Used For
• Bilberry has been used for nearly 1,000 years in traditional European medicine.
• Historically, bilberry fruit was used to treat diarrhea, scurvy, and other conditions.
• Today, the fruit is used to treat diarrhea, menstrual cramps, eye problems, varicose veins, venous insufficiency (poor blood flow to the heart), and other circulatory problems.
• Bilberry leaf is used for entirely different conditions, including diabetes.
How It Is Used
The fruit of the bilberry plant can be eaten or made into extracts. Similarly, the leaves of the bilberry plant can be made into extracts or used to make teas.
What the Science Says
• Some claim that bilberry fruit improves night vision, but clinical studies have not shown this to be true.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry fruit or leaf for any other health conditions.
• NCCAM has not yet funded any research on bilberry.
Side Effects and Cautions
• Tell your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including bilberry. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.
Sources
Bilberry. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on March 29, 2006.
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on March 29, 2006.
Bilberry fruit. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs.
Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:16-21.
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Web site: www.ods.od.nih.gov
This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged. NCCAM has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCAM.
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Comment by Lara M
Love Speaks
Food Slate
Thanks for sharing, Lynn.