The Bilberry is a short bush that grows in the forests and moors of northern Europe. The berries are a small blue-black sweet tasting fruit. They are from the same family as the Huckleberry and the Blueberry. The Bilberry bush has been used since hunter/gatherer times as a healthy berry snack source for our ancestors. It was first recorded for medicinal use in the 16th century. Bilberries have been used by sailors for the treatment of scurvy caused be deficiency of Vitamin C on long sea voyages.
Today, Bilberries rank among the most popular supplements for maintaining healthy vision, including poor night-vision, cataracts and macular degeneration. Scientists were intrigued by the improved night-vision of the Bilberry-eating World War II pilots and identified certain active compounds in the berry called anthocyanosides. These substances appear to have the effect of improving blood flow to the tiny blood vessels that keep eyes healthy. Anthocyanosides also appear to strengthen collagen to support healthy connective tissue in the eyes. Herbalists have long considered the Bilberry useful for treating night blindness, to improve daytime vision impaired by glare, as well as to prevent and treat macular degeneration and cataracts. Specific evidence showing that Bilberry is effective for vision-related problems is still quite weak — some studies indicate at least some short-term effectiveness, while others indicate no benefit. The Bilberry appears to assist the retina, the light-sensitive part of the eye, in adjusting quickly to both dark and light. This is probably a result of the plant's anthocyanosides, boosting nutrients and blood delivery to the retinal cells. The berries are thought to possess an antioxidant effect up to 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E.
Age-related Macular Degeneration is a condition in which the light-sensitive area in the center of the retina gradually deteriorates and is a cause of blindness in older people. Several studies have shown that the potent antioxidants found in Bilberry may be a natural way to prevent this degeneration of vision. Many of us will notice our vision has changed over the years. Studies have shown that taking a Bilberry supplement can slow the rate of retinal degeneration associated with macular degeneration.
In one study of 50 patients with age-related cataracts, it was found that taking Bilberry extract along with Vitamin E supplements stopped the progression of cataracts in nearly all of the participants. It remains unclear, however, whether the vitamin or the Bilberry, or even the combination of the two, was responsible for this beneficial effect.
Bilberry supplements have also shown promise in lessening the effects of diabetic retinopathy, a degenerative eye disease that affects people with diabetes.
Forms in Which Bilberry Can be Taken
Bilberry can be eaten as fresh berries, or drunk as a tea made from the berries, or as Bilberry extract in capsules. Look for capsules that contain between 23 to 37 percent of anthocyanosides for best effect. Good quality bilberry extract can be purchased online at www.ardenhealth.com
Bilberry fruit extract has no known side effects when taken at recommended doses, even when used on a long-term basis. The dried fruits of the Bilberry appear to be safe to take at recommended dosages, but it is probably best to avoid the leaves because not much is known about their safety.
If you suspect that you have developed an eye problem or a circulation disorder, consult your doctor first before taking any supplements.
Is there any supplement I can take to protect me from sunburn? I work outdoors on site and my skin is very dry.
—Nick
Not that I know of but Permea Plus for hair, skin and nails is a very good supplement for keeping you looking young and healthy. You must apply a high factor sunscreen to your face and hands, as they will become damaged and aged by exposure to the hot desert sun. You also need to cover your arms and legs, and your head with a hat. It is very important that you always wear sunglasses to prevent damage to your eyes. Unlike other parts of your body, your eye lens does not repair itself when damaged. You will also need to drink more water than the recommended eight to 10 glasses and sip water throughout the day.
—Alva
