Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
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Overview
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is famous for improving night vision and promoting eye health, largely due to its anthocyanidin content that supports retinal function and strengthens capillaries. It is closely related to the blueberry, and they can be used interchangeably in many cases. Bilberry fruit can help address circulatory issues, particularly in smaller blood vessels.
Traditional uses & properties
Eye & Vision Support: Proven benefits for night vision and may be helpful for macular degeneration, retinopathy, and other eye conditions, partly through enhanced microcirculation. Vascular Tonic & Anti-inflammatory: Improves capillary function, which may aid conditions like varicose veins, hemorrhoids, Raynaud’s disease, and other circulatory issues. Antioxidant & Astringent: Bilberry fruit and leaves contain potent antioxidants that help protect tissues from damage and have mild laxative as well as antibacterial effects. Urinary Antiseptic (Leaves): The leaves, with their antiseptic properties, have been used traditionally for cystitis and other urinary tract infections. Potential Antidiabetic Actions: Both leaves and fruit may help stabilize blood sugar levels or assist with pre-diabetic states.
Traditional preparations
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
The fresh berries can be eaten daily to help heal eye irritations.
Take up to four 500 mg capsules daily to improve circulation within the eye.
Safety & precautions
Leaves (Long-Term Use): Extended consumption of bilberry leaves in high amounts may cause gastric irritation or kidney issues, though normal usage has a history of safety. Blood Thinners: If you take anticoagulant medication or have a bleeding disorder, consult a qualified professional before using bilberry in medicinal doses.
Drug & food interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
The plant grows in moist heaths, moors, and forest undergrowth throughout the temperate northern hemisphere - Asia, Europe, and North America. It is cultivated worldwide, usually from seeds or cuttings. The leaves are gathered in summer, while the berries ripen in late summer or early autumn.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) as follows: Eye & Vision Support: Proven benefits for night vision and may be helpful for macular degeneration, retinopathy, and other eye conditions, partly through enhanced microcirculation. Vascular Tonic & Anti-inflammatory: Improves capillary function, which may aid conditions like varicose veins, hemorrhoids, Raynaud’s disease, and other circulatory issues. Antioxidant & Astringent: Bilberry fruit and leaves contain potent antioxidants that help protect tissues from damage and have mild laxative as well as antibacterial effects. Urinary Antiseptic (Leaves): The leaves, with their antiseptic properties, have been used traditionally for cystitis and other urinary tract infections. Potential Antidiabetic Actions: Both leaves and fruit may help stabilize blood sugar levels or assist with pre-diabetic states.
How is Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) prepared?
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person. Pink Eye: The fresh berries can be eaten daily to help heal eye irritations. Blurred Vision: Take up to four 500 mg capsules daily to improve circulation within the eye.
What safety cautions apply to Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)?
Leaves (Long-Term Use): Extended consumption of bilberry leaves in high amounts may cause gastric irritation or kidney issues, though normal usage has a history of safety. Blood Thinners: If you take anticoagulant medication or have a bleeding disorder, consult a qualified professional before using bilberry in medicinal doses.
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