Bilberry 4:1 P.E.
Bilberry 4:1 P.E. is a dietary supplement made from bilberry fruit extract. Bilberry is a type of berry that contains chemicals called tannins, which can help improve diarrhea and reduce swelling (inflammation) in the mouth and throat. Bilberry has also been reported to lower blood glucose, have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects, and act as an antioxidant. Although bilberry is promoted most commonly for improving vision, there are few studies that have examined bilberry specifically, and even fewer studies have been done in humans.
Benefits of Bilberry 4:1 P.E.:
- May improve vision and overall eye health
- May help reduce inflammation and swelling
- May have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects
- May act as an antioxidant
Case studies regarding the benefits of Bilberry 4:1 P.E. are scarce. There is only one published report of the effects of bilberry supplementation on antioxidant status and oxidative stress in human subjects.
The recommended dosage for bilberry fruit extract is most often used by adults in doses of 160-240 mg per day. However, it is important to note that bilberry leaf extracts are possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time. Side effects such as nausea or abdominal discomfort have been reported with bilberry use. Bilberry fruit extracts are possibly safe when taken in doses up to 160 mg daily for up to 6 months. Medications that slow blood clotting may interact with bilberry, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding. Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver, and bilberry might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications, which could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
Sources:
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/bilberry-fruit
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92770/
- https://healthjade.com/bilberry/
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-bilberry-88315
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/bilberry
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-202/bilberry
