Generic
Bilberry Fruit Capsule
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Bilberry Fruit Capsule is a herbal supplement used in the treatment of various eye conditions such as retinopathy, cataracts, macular degeneration, night blindness, and retinitis pigmentosa. It is rich in anthocyanins which improve eye health and support microcirculation.
Description
Bilberry is the dried, ripe, black or bluish-black fruit of Vaccinium myrtillus L., a small European blueberry. It has become popular in the United States as a dietary supplement over the past decade. Bilberry contains tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoid glycosides. Some concentrated extracts are standardized to anthocyanosides, calculated as 25% anthocyanidins, but may actually contain about 37% by weight.
Bilberry is indicated in retinopathy (hypertensive and diabetic), night blindness, cataracts, macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and hemorrhagic retinopathy. It is also used to treat microcirculatory disorders including varicose veins, atherosclerosis, and venous insufficiency.
Indications
- Retinopathy (hypertensive and diabetic)
- Night blindness
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Hemorrhagic retinopathy
- Microcirculatory disorders (varicose veins, atherosclerosis, venous insufficiency)
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Anthocyanoside (Vaccinium myrtillus extract)
Pharmacology
Bilberry extract is used to treat retinopathy, cataracts, macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and hemorrhagic retinopathy. Bilberry anthocyanins regenerate rhodopsin and are indicated in the treatment of poor night vision and cataracts. Bilberry is also used to treat microcirculatory disorders which include varicose veins, atherosclerosis, and venous insufficiency.
Mechanism of action
- Inhibits enzymatic cleavage of collagen by enzymes secreted by leucocytes during inflammation.
- Inhibits retinal phosphoglucomutase and glucose-6-phosphatase, conferring retinal protection.
- Reduces microvascular impairments due to ischemic reperfusion injury, with preservation of endothelium, attenuation of leukocyte adhesion, and improvement of capillary perfusion.
- Produces dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation and clot retraction.
- Decreases basement membrane collagen hydrolysis by significantly reducing permeability of the blood-brain barrier and increases recovery rate of the BBB caused by permeability-increasing agents.
Dosage
One 160 mg capsule should be taken 2-3 times daily or as per the instruction of a physician.
Administration
Take as advised by your physician. Swallow the capsule whole. Can be taken with or without food.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
No known side effects.
Precautions & warnings
- No known restrictions during pregnancy and lactation, but consult your doctor.
- Very high doses (more than 170 mg anthocyanins daily for 30-60 days) may interact with warfarin or other antiplatelet drugs.
Contraindications
No known contraindications.
Drug interactions
- No known drug interactions.
- Very high doses (more than 170 mg anthocyanins daily for 30-60 days) may interact with warfarin or other antiplatelet drugs.
Food interactions
No known food interactions.
Use in pregnancy
No known restrictions during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before use.
Use in lactation
No known restrictions during lactation. Nursing mothers should consult their doctor before use.
Pediatric use
Adequate information on pediatric use is not available. Consult your doctor.
Geriatric use
No special dose adjustment required for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions required for patients with liver or kidney impairment.
Overdose effects
No known toxic effects from overdose. However, excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Storage conditions
Store at a cool, dry place below 30°C temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Vaccinium myrtillus L. (Bilberry) - Anthocyanins, Tannins, Flavonoid Glycosides