Evidence supporting the use of: Bilberry
For the health condition: Eye Problems

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Synopsis

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

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has a long history of traditional use for supporting eye health, especially in Europe. Its association with eye problems—such as night vision, retinal health, and fatigue—became particularly popular during World War II, when British Royal Air Force pilots reportedly consumed bilberry jam to improve their night vision. However, this story is largely anecdotal and lacks robust documentation. Traditionally, bilberry's use for eye health has been attributed to its high content of anthocyanins, compounds thought to strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation, including in the eyes.

Scientific evidence is less convincing. Some small clinical trials and animal studies suggest bilberry extracts may have antioxidant effects and could potentially play a role in protecting the retina or slowing the progression of certain eye conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. However, systematic reviews and more rigorous clinical trials conclude that the overall quality of evidence is low, with inconsistent results and methodological limitations.

In summary, while bilberry is widely used for eye problems and has a strong basis in traditional use—with some preliminary scientific support—the evidence is not strong enough to conclusively validate its effectiveness for treating or preventing eye diseases.

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