Fruit · Berry

Bilberry

Provisional Strong Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains anthocyanins, particularly delphinidin and cyanidin, which support eye health and circulation. These compounds protect retinal cells from oxidative damage and strengthen capillary walls throughout the body.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryFruit

GroupBerry

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordbilberry benefits

Bilberry — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Bilberries are rich in anthocyanins, which support eye health by protecting the retina and improving night vision. - They enhance circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving blood flow. - High in vitamin C, bilberries boost the immune system, helping to ward off colds and infections. - Their anti-inflammatory properties can reduce symptoms of arthritis and improve joint health. - Bilberries may improve cognitive function, enhancing memory and concentration through increased blood flow to the brain. - They help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for managing diabetes. - Antioxidants in bilberries protect against oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Bilberry is a small, dark blue berry native to Europe, related to the American blueberry. It grows on low shrubs in the wild.

“Bilberry has been used in traditional European medicine for centuries, particularly for eye health and circulation.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Studies suggest bilberry may improve night vision and reduce eye fatigue, but more research is needed for conclusive evidence.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- High in vitamin C and manganese. - Contains anthocyanins and polyphenols. - Low in calories and sugar.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Bilberry's anthocyanins, primarily delphinidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-glucoside, protect retinal cells by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. These compounds strengthen capillary walls by stabilizing collagen and elastin fibers, while also inhibiting aldose reductase enzyme activity. The anthocyanins enhance rhodopsin regeneration in retinal photoreceptors, improving low-light vision adaptation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

A randomized controlled trial with 60 participants showed bilberry extract (160mg daily) improved night vision within 4 weeks compared to placebo. Several small studies (20-40 participants) demonstrated modest improvements in eye fatigue and retinal blood flow after 4-12 weeks of supplementation. However, larger clinical trials are needed to confirm cardiovascular benefits, as most circulation studies have been observational or used combination formulas. Evidence for diabetic retinopathy protection remains preliminary with mixed results.

Also Known As

Vaccinium myrtillusEuropean blueberryWhortleberryHuckleberryBlaeberryWhinberryBilberrry extractMyrtillus

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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