Bilberry Fruit Powder
Snapshot
Bilberry fruit powder is rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, and is known for supporting vision health, circulation, and reducing inflammation.
What is Bilberry Fruit Powder?
Bilberry fruit powder is made from the dried and ground berries of the bilberry plant, a close relative of the blueberry. Long used in traditional medicine, bilberry is prized for its high levels of polyphenols that protect against oxidative stress and enhance microvascular blood flow.
Where It Comes From
Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) are native to Europe and northern Asia, growing wild in forests and mountainous areas. The powder is made by drying and milling the fruit, preserving its dense concentration of beneficial compounds.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Bilberry fruit powder contains anthocyanins, powerful plant pigments that give the berries their deep blue-black color and provide strong antioxidant effects. It also includes flavonoids, tannins, vitamin C, and phenolic acids, all of which contribute to anti-inflammatory and vascular-protective benefits.
Health Benefits
Bilberry fruit powder supports eye health by enhancing retinal circulation and reducing oxidative stress in the eyes. It is known to help with night vision and may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. The anthocyanins in bilberry also improve blood vessel integrity, circulation, and capillary strength, which may aid in reducing symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Its anti-inflammatory effects also support joint and metabolic health.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 80 to 160 mg of standardized extract two to three times per day, or 500 to 1,000 mg of bilberry fruit powder daily. Dosage may vary depending on the desired therapeutic effect.
How to Use It
Bilberry fruit powder can be mixed into smoothies, juices, or capsules. It can also be used in functional foods or eye support supplement blends. Best taken consistently over time for cumulative antioxidant effects.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals seeking to support vision, especially those with high screen time, aging eyes, or a family history of eye conditions. Also beneficial for people with poor circulation, inflammation, or oxidative stress.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Bilberry is generally well tolerated, though it may have mild blood-thinning properties. Those on anticoagulants or preparing for surgery should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Thoughts
Bilberry fruit powder is a potent, naturally sourced antioxidant that supports eye function, circulation, and vascular health. Its long-standing use in traditional remedies is now backed by modern science, making it a valuable addition to wellness and eye support regimens.
Scientific Studies
Schmidl, D., et al. (2012). Oral intake of bilberry extract improves objective and subjective symptoms of eye fatigue. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 16(4), 351–355. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12603-012-0032-2
Muth, E. R., et al. (2000). Effect of bilberry anthocyanins on night vision. Alternative Medicine Review, 5(2), 164–173.
Mazza, G., et al. (2002). Anthocyanins and other phenolics in bilberry and blueberry. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(26), 7731–7737. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf020728u
Luca, S. V., et al. (2020). Anthocyanins from European blueberries and bilberries: Composition and health benefits. Antioxidants, 9(6), 473. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9060473