Evidence supporting the use of: Bilberry
For the health condition: Capillary Weakness

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has a long-standing reputation in traditional European medicine for supporting vascular health, including the treatment of capillary fragility and weakness. The scientific rationale for its use centers around its high content of anthocyanins—polyphenolic compounds with potent antioxidant properties. These anthocyanins are believed to strengthen capillary walls, reduce permeability, and enhance microcirculation.

Several experimental and clinical studies have investigated bilberry extract’s effects on capillary function. Early research, including small clinical trials, suggests that bilberry anthocyanins can decrease capillary permeability and fragility, leading to improved symptoms in conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency and diabetic retinopathy. A 2015 review in the journal Phytotherapy Research concluded that bilberry extract may improve vascular tone and reduce edema through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions on blood vessels, although more robust, larger-scale clinical trials are needed.

Most evidence is moderate in quality (rating: 3/5), with study limitations including small sample sizes and variable standardization of extracts. While bilberry is widely used for vascular support in Europe and included in pharmacopeias for this purpose, definitive large-scale, placebo-controlled trials are lacking. In summary, both traditional use and a moderate amount of scientific evidence support bilberry’s role in treating capillary weakness, primarily due to its anthocyanin content and effects on microvascular integrity.

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