Evidence supporting the use of: Bilberry
For the health condition: Circulation (to the brain)

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Synopsis

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

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for supporting circulation and vascular health, including circulation to the brain. Scientifically, bilberry is rich in anthocyanins—potent flavonoid antioxidants—that are believed to benefit blood vessels and microcirculation. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that bilberry extracts may enhance capillary strength, improve blood vessel flexibility, and reduce oxidative damage, which could indirectly support cerebral blood flow.

However, while these mechanisms are promising, direct evidence from human clinical trials specifically investigating bilberry’s effects on brain circulation is limited. A few small studies have indicated potential cognitive benefits or improved blood flow parameters with anthocyanin supplementation, but often these studies use mixed flavonoid sources or focus on outcomes outside of direct cerebral circulation. The most robust evidence for bilberry concerns its use in improving symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and diabetic retinopathy, both of which involve microvascular health, but not specifically brain circulation.

In summary, there is a plausible scientific rationale for bilberry’s potential to support circulation to the brain based on its effects on blood vessels and antioxidant activity. Yet, direct clinical validation in this area is lacking, and most claims are extrapolated from broader vascular studies. Thus, the evidence rating is modest (2/5), reflecting preliminary support but a need for more targeted research.

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