Bilberry Monograph

A bilberry monograph for the home

This bilberry monograph provides basic information about bilberry—common names, usefulness and safety, and resources for more information.

The bilberry bush is a relative of the blueberry and is native to many areas, including the Rocky Mountains and regions of Europe and Asia.
Its berries and leaves have been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages for a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, scurvy, infections, burns, and diabetes. During World War II, British pilots ate bilberry jam, thinking it would improve their night vision.
Today, bilberry is used as a dietary supplement for cardiovascular conditions, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, eye problems, diabetes, and other conditions.
Bilberry extract is sold in tablets, capsules, and drops, and the berries are sold dried and as a powder. The leaves are made into teas.

We have very few high-quality clinical trials (studies in people) of bilberry supplements.

There’s not enough scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry for any health conditions.
Researchers are interested in bilberry in large part because its berries have a high concentration of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may have health benefits.

Bilberry fruit is considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods, or as an extract in recommended doses for brief periods of time.
Bilberry leaves may be unsafe when taken orally (by mouth) in high doses or for long periods of time.

Barrett M. Bilberry. In: Coates PM, Betz JM, Blackman MR, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Informa Healthcare; 2010:37-42.
Bilberry. Natural Medicines Web site. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com on March 24, 2015.