Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, particularly for vascular and circulatory health. Its berries are rich in anthocyanins, compounds believed to exert antioxidant and capillary-strengthening effects. Traditionally, bilberry has been used to support conditions involving fragile capillaries, poor venous tone, and microcirculatory disturbances—including hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectal and anal area. The rationale is that by improving capillary integrity and reducing inflammation, bilberry may help alleviate the discomfort and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids.

However, direct clinical evidence for bilberry’s efficacy in treating hemorrhoids is limited. Most of the support comes from its general reputation for vascular health and indirect evidence from studies on related conditions, such as chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins, where bilberry and similar flavonoid-rich extracts have shown some benefits. No large, well-designed randomized controlled trials specifically investigating bilberry for hemorrhoids have been published. Therefore, while its use is rooted in tradition and supported by plausible mechanisms of action, the scientific evidence for bilberry as a hemorrhoid treatment remains weak and largely anecdotal.

In summary, bilberry’s use for hemorrhoids is justified primarily by traditional knowledge and indirect evidence, rather than robust scientific validation. Individuals interested in trying bilberry for hemorrhoid support should consult a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.

More about bilberry
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Other ingredients used for Hemorrhoids

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