bilberry extract (from Vaccinium myrtillus) -50g

bilberry extract (from Vaccinium myrtillus)

Bilberry is a wild European berry rich in anthocyanins (anthocyanosides)—plant pigments with antioxidant and vascular-supporting properties.

Bilberry extract stands out as a classic vascular- and eye-support botanical supported by both tradition and some small clinical studies. It may also offer antioxidant and metabolic support. However, while anecdotal reports of mood, vision clarity, or anxiety relief are intriguing, high‑quality clinical research is still needed.

✅ Potential Benefits & Uses

1. Eye & Vision Support

• Historically used to improve night vision and retinal health by boosting rhodopsin and enhancing dark adaptation.

• A small study found faster adaptation to low light in participants given bilberry anthocyanins (~6.5 min vs ~9 min in controls) 

2. Circulatory & Blood Vessel Health

• May strengthen capillaries, improve blood circulation, reduce clotting tendency, and support vascular integrity—beneficial in conditions like varicose veins or mild edema 

3. Anti‑Inflammatory & Antioxidant Effects

• Anthocyanins help reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially aiding metabolic syndrome, IBD, and general “inflammaging”

4. Blood Sugar & Lipid Regulation

• Early studies suggest bilberry extract may modestly lower LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, HbA1c, and improve insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes contexts 

5. Digestive Health & Diarrhea

• Traditionally used for diarrhea, likely via tannins’ anti-diarrheal and astringent effects—but clinical evidence is limited

6. Gum & Oral Health

• A small study found reduced gingival inflammation and bleeding after bilberry intake—suggesting capillary-strengthening effects in gums 

7. Cognitive/Mood Anecdotes

• Emerging reports (e.g. UK-based users) suggest feel-good, clearer thinking, reduced anxiety, and lighter eye strain after supplementing bilberry extract—though formal studies are lacking 

8. Miscellaneous Uses in Skin & Hair

• Occasionally found in skincare formulations for its antioxidant and soothing properties (not covered extensively in high-quality studies)