Bilberry Extract Plus

Bilberry is a European relative of the blueberry and huckleberry. In Europe the fruit is eaten fresh or made into jam. Herbalists have used the fruit and leaves for centuries primarily for digestive problems.

The bilberry’s use for vision support did not come to the forefront until the 1940s during World War II. According to reports, U.S. and British pilots ate bilberries as part of their diet. After using for some time they noticed an improvement in their night vision. This prompted extensive research in Europe which confirmed bilberries contained compound beneficial to the eyes and circulatory system.

Bilberries are high in flavanoids, substances found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains but in especially high concentrations in citrus fruits and berries. Flavanoids are responsible for color in these plants. The flavanoids in Bilberries are called anthocyanosides. Research indicates these anthocyanosides build up the level of crucial enzymes and substances in the eyes. They can also help improve circulation in the eyes. They appear to be particularly beneficial to the retina. Bilberry is often used to help treat retinopathy. Since 1945 Bilberry has been prescribed in France for diabetic retinopathy. Retinopathy is common in people with diabetes, high blood pressure and sickle cell anemia. There is also some indication that bilberry may prove helpful in the prevention of cataracts.

Bilberry works as a strong antioxidant neutralizing free radicals. This may account for part of its effectiveness in the eyes. Vitabase Bilberry Plus combines bilberry, at the recommended level of 25% anthocyanosides, with Red Grape Extract, an additional source of anthocyanosides. The addition of citrus bioflavanoids may provide additional support for the circulatory system including the small capillaries in the eyes. Learn more...