Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Anthocyanin-rich Northern European berry with EMA-monograph for venous insufficiency, preliminary signal for visual function in glaucoma and asthenopia.
Why
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) holds an EMA HMPC Traditional Use monograph for symptoms of heavy legs in mild venous circulatory disturbance and for symptomatic relief of itching and burning related to haemorrhoids. The popular wartime story about RAF pilots eating bilberry jam for night vision is anecdotal, modern RCTs of bilberry for night vision have been mostly null (Canter 2004). A separate body of work supports use for diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma microcirculation.
How it works
High anthocyanin content (5–15%) supports microvascular integrity and reduces capillary permeability. Antioxidant effects on retinal photoreceptors documented preclinically.
Expected onset · Vascular effects over 4–8 weeks; visual effects (if any) within similar window
How to take
Dosage
Standardised extract: 80–160 mg 1–3 times daily (typically 25% anthocyanidins / Mirtoselect).
Timing
Once or twice daily with food
On the label
Standardised to anthocyanins (~25% / Mirtoselect®). Distinct from blueberry (V. corymbosum) which has different anthocyanin profile and trial base. Fresh bilberries are a food source.
Ideal for
Adults with chronic venous insufficiency symptoms; people with mild diabetic retinopathy or asthenopia exploring botanical options.
Safety
Evidence
EMA classifies bilberry fruit at Traditional Use for venous insufficiency symptoms. Canter 2004 systematic review found no consistent effect for night vision, the popular story is essentially anecdotal. Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Traditional-use registration only, no Cochrane review, no Well-Established Use monograph, no EFSA-authorised claim, and no major-journal RCT supports a specific therapeutic effect. Inclusion here reflects the documented tradition; modern clinical evidence is limited.
Where to get it
Shop Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) on AmazonSponsored · As an Amazon Associate, Healicus earns from qualifying purchases.