Table of contents:
- Benefits
- What is bilberry for?
- How does it work?
- Dose
- What is the usual dosage for bilberry for adults?
- In what forms is bilberry available?
- Side effects
- What side effects can bilberry cause?
- Security
- What should I know before taking bilberry?
- How safe is bilberry?
- Interaction
- What kinds of interactions might occur when I consume bilberry?
Benefits
What is bilberry for?
Bilberry fruit is the fruit of an herbal plant. The fruit (both dry and ripe) and the leaves are used to make medicine.
Bilberry fruit is used to improve visual acuity (including night vision) preventing cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Some people use bilberry for heart and blood vessel conditions including hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), varicose veins, decreased blood flow in the veins, and chest pain.
Bilberry fruit is also used for chronic fatigue syndrome, hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids, diabetes, osteoarthritis, gout, skin infections, indigestion, kidney disease, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Bilberry is also sometimes applied directly to the inside of the mouth for sore throat and other mouth complaints. Other uses of bilberry include reducing diarrhea, ulcers in adults or children, maintaining insulin levels, as a laxative, and as a urinary antiseptic.
How does it work?
There is not enough research on how this herbal supplement works. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are some studies that show that bilberries contain chemicals called tannins that can help treat diarrhea and irritation of the mouth and throat, by reducing swelling (inflammation).
There is also some evidence that the chemicals found in bilberry leaves can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Some researchers think that the chemicals called flavonoids in bilberry leaves can also improve circulation in diabetics. Untreated circulation problems can harm the retina of the eye.
Dose
The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.
What is the usual dosage for bilberry for adults?
The dosage for dried bilberry fruit and ripe fruit is 20-60 grams a day. It can also be drunk as a tea made from 5-10 grams (1-2 teaspoons) of ground fruit. A dose of 160 mg of bilberry extract taken twice daily has been prescribed to people with retinal pain.
Bilberry leaves are commonly used as tea. The tea is prepared by steeping 1 gram or 1-2 teaspoons, finely chop the dry leaves in 150 ml boiling water for 5-10 minutes, then strain. Don't use bilberry leaves in the long run.
The dosage of this herbal supplement varies for each patient, as it depends on age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe to use. Consult a herbalist or doctor to get the correct dosage.
In what forms is bilberry available?
Bilberry fruit that is made into this herbal supplement can be available in the following forms:
- capsule
- liquid extract
- fresh fruit
- dry roots or leaves
Side effects
What side effects can bilberry cause?
Bilberry may have several side effects including:
- dry eyes
- dry mouth
- stomach ache
- constipation
Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about side effects, please consult an herbalist or doctor.
Security
What should I know before taking bilberry?
This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States (equivalent to the BPOM of the Indonesian Ministry of Health) even though it is permitted in other countries. However, this means that its safety and efficacy are not yet certain. The long-term safety of this herbal product is unknown and is very possibly unsafe.
Bilberry can affect blood glucose levels. This can interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using bilberry at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
You should note any medications or ingredients you use or plan to use with your doctor when you start using bilberry. The regulations governing the use of herbal supplements are less stringent than the regulations for the use of drugs. Further research is needed to determine its safety. Before using herbal supplements, make sure the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your herbalist and doctor for more information.
How safe is bilberry?
Bilberry is quite safe for pregnant and lactating women and children. However, remember to use bilberry in moderation. Large amounts of bilberry use may not be safe. Do not use bilberry for people who are allergic.
Interaction
What kinds of interactions might occur when I consume bilberry?
This herbal supplement may interact with your current medications or your medical condition. Consult an herbalist or doctor before use.
Bilberry leaves can lower blood sugar. Using bilberry leaves along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to get too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
