Bilberry (billberry) Herb, Extract, Side Effects, Benefits

Bilberry (billberry) Herb, Extract, Side Effects, Benefits

Anthocyanins are a separate class of flavonoids from proanthocyanidins, discussed in NSN 2000;5(6):231-4.  Anthocyanins are the active component in several herbal folk medicines such as bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), which was used in the 12th century.  Scientists are now discovering how such anthocyanins work and are beginning to appreciate their health benefits.  Besides chlorophyll, anthocyanins are probably the most important group of visible plant pigments.  Approximately 4,000 different flavonoids have been identified.  We now have excellent extracts that provide standardized doses of the active polyphenols in berries and grapes.  Bilberry extract and grape seed extract are the best known; cranberry extract and elderberry extract are also available for special uses.

One of the most important properties of anthocyanins and simpler phenolic compounds such as ellagic acid and quercetin is their ability to recycle glutathione.  Glutathione is one of our most important antioxidant defenses.  It is a tripeptide consisting of amino acids glutamate, glycine and cysteine.  Alpha lipoic acid and n-acetyl-cysteine also raise glutathione.  If you wish to take oral glutathione, it might be a good idea to take a high dose of billberry extract with the glutathione capsule in order to help prevent glutathione from being oxidized right in the gastrointenstinal tract.

So, it may be wise to consume plenty of berries, cherries and plums and a moderate amount of red wine -- the richest natural sources of proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, simple phenolic acids and other phenolic compounds.  And, to initiate or continue a standard regimen.  Since even blueberries can get boring when eaten every day, it is good to try all kinds of berries and other antioxidant-rich fruit in order to enjoy variety.  Blackberries, for instance, are also an extremely rich source of phenolic.  Likewise, tart cherries, now available in the dried form, are a delicious source of anthocyanins and ellagic acid.  Unsweetened prunes are also high on the list of antioxidant-rich fruit.  Think in terms of rich, deep pigments and somewhat tart taste -- these signal the presence of the beneficial polyphenols of which show nothing but positive side effects.

In order to get the full benefits of blueberries and/or bilberry extract, you should eat an adequate amount and/or take an adequate dose.  Half a cup of blueberries a day is probably the minimum needed to provide benefits;  a whole cup may work better for optimum health.  The elderly may also consider consuming a larger amount, or else supplement their berry consumption with high-potency bilberry extract. You may want to experiment to see what dosage range works best for you.  You might also consider taking 300 mg of grape seed extract at bedtime.  However, you can adjust the dose according to your age, body size and other antioxidants currently taken.

The general rule is that a synergistic mixture of antioxidants works much better than relying on a single agent.

In summary, getting sufficient doses of anthocyanins/polyphenols/proanthocyanidins from diet and supplements should be an important part of any serious health regimen.

Dose and Use:  One to two capsules daily are suggested or as recommended by your healthcare professional.

• Keep out of reach of children,
• Do not exceed recommended dose,
• If you have a bad reaction or side effects, discontinue use immediately,
• Billberry has blood-thinning properties so, consult your doctor before taking Bilberry if you take warfarin (Coumadin),
• May cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea.

Order:  Bilberry Herb Extract

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