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| Billberry Extract |
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Bilberries are basically the European version of the American blueberry. Bilberries are grown in Europe, Canada and the U.S. and extracts of the ripe berry are known to contain flavonoid pigments known as anthocyanins - which act as powerful antioxidants. For you history buffs, some of the health effects of eating bilberries (to promote good vision) came to light during World War II when English bomber pilots reported an increase in their night vision after eating bilberry jam. Billberry extracts are now promoted for a number of vision and vein health effects such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Commercial supplements are typically standardized to at least 25% anthocyanosides. Other names : Airelle, Bilberry Fruit, Bilberry Leaf, Black Whortles, Bleaberry, Blueberry, Burren Myrtle, Dwarf Bilberry, Dyeberry, Huckleberry, Hurtleberry, Myrtilli Fructus, Trackleberry, Vaccinium Myrtillus, Whortleberry, Wineberry. Bilberries are a rich source of anthocyanosides, compounds which possess potent antioxidant properties which can protect capillaries from free radical damage. Because capillary damage is a primary factor in a number of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, bilberry extracts are often promoted as a way to protect capillaries from damage. Anthocyanosides may also promote the formation of connective tissue through their protective effects on collagen synthesis and repair and, thus, may also improve vascular circulation. A number of venous disorders have been treated with bilberry extracts, showing anti-inflammatory benefits and reduction in hemorrhoidal symptoms. Improved visual acuity has been noted in anecdotal reports of night vision (bomber pilot story) and diabetic retinopathy. A 20% reduction in capillary lesions was noted in one study following daily intake of 600 mg of bilberry extract for 6 months. Possibly Effective for...
You can get all the anthocyanins you need by eating ½ to 1 cup of fresh bilberry or blueberry with your breakfast. Standardized extracts are often more convenient, where doses should approximate 100 – 500 mg per day (25% anthocyanosides) in 2 to 3 divided doses. Under recommended intakes, bilberry extract is safe. In some cases, it may even be recommended for use during pregnancy for prevention and treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids. ALL women, however, who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with her personal physician before taking this, or any, dietary supplement. |