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Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Anthocyanin-dense berry studied mostly for eyes. Small RCTs suggest it eases screen-related eye fatigue and ciliary-muscle strain, but a systematic review found no night-vision benefit and cardiometabolic effects were non-significant.
What the evidence says
Bilberry appears to help in 3 of 4 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2004–2026 with a typical study size of 31 participants.
Based on 44 studies · 1 meta-analysis · 28 RCTs · 1,349 total participants
Confidence
High confidenceWhat the studies found
By outcome
Small RCTs show bilberry eases eye fatigue and ciliary-muscle strain, but a systematic review found no night-vision benefit and cardiometabolic meta-analysis effects were non-significant.
6 trials ongoing or recruiting · 31 completed on ClinicalTrials.gov
1 of the completed trials have posted results
Registered trials show research momentum for Bilberry, not proof of effect — a registration is a plan, and posted results are sponsor-reported, not peer-reviewed. They are never counted toward the evidence rating above.
Browse these trials on ClinicalTrials.govClinicalTrials.gov · as of Oct 2026
Bilberry is a European relative of blueberry, rich in anthocyanins. Its best evidence is for eye comfort: small RCTs report reduced eye fatigue and improved ciliary-muscle function in screen users.
The famous WWII night-vision story does not hold up — a systematic review (Canter 2004) found the four most rigorous trials all negative for night vision. Cardiometabolic effects (glucose, lipids) trended favorable but were non-significant in meta-analysis.
Most eye trials are small, single studies, often using combination products, so benefits are real but modest and low-confidence.
Supports light-sensitive pigment regeneration
Improves blood flow to small vessels
How Bilberry works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
Food amounts safe; limited data on extracts
A clinically important interaction between bilberry and each listed anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicine has not been established from the evidence supplied here. Ask a pharmacist to assess the exact supplement, medicine and other bleeding risks before use. This possible interaction has not been individually evaluated for this supplement; its likelihood and severity are unknown. If you take an anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicine, ask a pharmacist or prescriber before using this product. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines based on this notice.
May have mild blood sugar effects
Tip: Take with food
Bilberry has an evidence score of 5/10 — moderate evidence based on 44 indexed studies, including 1 meta-analysis. Anthocyanin-dense berry studied mostly for eyes. Small RCTs suggest it eases screen-related eye fatigue and ciliary-muscle strain, but a systematic review found no night-vision benefit and cardiometabolic effects were non-significant. Representative study: PMID 40751398.
The commonly studied dose of Bilberry is 160-480mg standardized extract (25% anthocyanins). Individual needs vary — start at the lower end of the range and adjust based on how you respond.
The best time to take Bilberry is with meals. Taking it with food is preferred. Bilberry anthocyanins are water-soluble polyphenols that benefit from mealtime dosing for improved tolerability.
Bilberry is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. Reported side effects are uncommon and include GI upset. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Bilberry or related compounds.
Aged Garlic Extract
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Likely helpsStudied for comfort and symptom duration during upper-respiratory infections when taken at onset — also supports liver health.
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Reviewed by Dr. Baher Al Hakim · Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 44 studies · how we score · editorial policy
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
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