Bilberry Leaf Powder
Bilberry leaf powder is a supplement made from the dried leaves of the bilberry plant. Bilberry leaf powder is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and anti-dyslipidemic activities.
It has been reported to lower blood glucose, to have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects. Bilberry leaf powder is also used to improve night vision and to decrease vascular permeability and capillary fragility. Although there is not enough research evidence to support any of these uses, preliminary research has looked at reducing risk factors for heart disease, reducing inflammation of the gums, and helping with eye fatigue associated with high use of video display terminals.
A study in alloxan-induced diabetic rats showed that supplementation with bilberry powder (2 g/day) for four weeks increased insulin and reduced blood glucose levels. Another study found that bilberry juice supplementation (330 mL/day) for 4 weeks improved antioxidant status and oxidative stress in human subjects with at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
The recommended dosage of bilberry leaf powder varies depending on the product and the intended use. It is important to follow the instructions on the label or consult a healthcare provider for guidance. 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. But bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548250/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9277355/
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/bilberry/
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-bilberry-88315
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-202/bilberry
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92770/
