Synopsis

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

Mountain Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also known as European blueberry or bilberry, has been traditionally used for eye health, including conditions like diabetic retinopathy. However, its use in diabetic retinopathy is primarily supported by scientific rationale and some preliminary studies rather than robust clinical evidence. Bilberry contains anthocyanins—potent antioxidant compounds—that are thought to improve microcirculation and capillary strength, reduce vascular permeability, and offer protection against oxidative stress, all of which are relevant to diabetic retinopathy pathophysiology.

Preclinical studies and a handful of small clinical trials suggest that bilberry extract may help in stabilizing or improving retinal health in diabetes by reducing capillary fragility and inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth. For example, older European research (mostly from the mid-20th century) and some more recent studies indicate that bilberry extract can reduce retinal hemorrhages and microaneurysms in diabetic retinopathy patients. However, these studies are generally limited by small sample sizes, lack of rigorous controls, and variability in extract standardization.

Systematic reviews and major diabetes guidelines do not currently endorse bilberry as a standard treatment for diabetic retinopathy due to insufficient high-quality evidence. Nonetheless, the scientific plausibility and preliminary findings justify ongoing research. In summary, while bilberry's use in diabetic retinopathy has a scientific foundation and some supporting data, conclusive evidence from well-designed clinical trials is lacking.

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