Common Names: bilberry, European blueberry, whortleberry, huckleberry
Latin Name: Vaccinium myrtillus
Background
- The bilberry bush is a relative of the blueberry and is native to many areas, including the Rocky Mountains and regions of Europe and Asia.
- Its berries and leaves have been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages for a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, scurvy, infections, burns, and diabetes. During World War II, British pilots ate bilberry jam, thinking it would improve their night vision.
- Today, bilberry is used as a dietary supplement for cardiovascular conditions, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, eye problems, diabetes, and other conditions.
- Bilberry extract is sold in tablets, capsules, and drops, and the berries are sold dried and as a powder. The leaves are made into teas.
How Much Do We Know?
- We have very few high-quality clinical trials (studies in people) of bilberry supplements.
What Have We Learned?
- There’s not enough scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry for any health conditions.
- Researchers are interested in bilberry in large part because its berries have a high concentration of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may have health benefits.
What Do We Know About Safety?
- Bilberry fruit is considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods, or as an extract in recommended doses for brief periods of time.
- Bilberry leaves may be unsafe when taken orally (by mouth) in high doses or for long periods of time.