Bilberry is a powerful antioxidant that appears to protect the eyes against macular degeneration and cataracts

Bilberry belongs to the same plant family as cranberries and huckleberries. It has been found to be a powerful antioxidant that works specifically to promote good eye health.

Vision improvement seems to be the most widespread use for this supplement. Bilberry’s vision improvement properties were discovered during World War II. Bilberries were commonly used for jams, pie and pastry fillings during that time and British royal air force bombers noticed that if they had pastries with bilberries before a night bombing raid their night vision got better. Before this time, they were often used to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and diarrhea.

Bilberry is used as an eye vitamin for eye health because it helps reduce free radicals that can damage sensitive parts of the body such as the eyes. For this reason bilberry is used to help treat cataracts. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye lens in older people. One study found that taking a bilberry and vitamin E supplement dramatically slowed or stopped the progression of the disease. In people suffering from macular degeneration, bilberry is often prescribed. Bilberry promotes the delivery of oxygen and blood to the eye, which is believed to reduce the breaking down of the retina caused by macular degeneration.

Bilberries also improve night vision, diabetic retinopathy, enhance blood circulation, reduce pain associated with hemorrhoids and varicose veins. The recommended dosage is between 80 to 160 milligrams per day. Herbal experts suggest that only the fruit be used as a supplement since there are no known side effects. However, very little is known about the effect the leaves or other parts of the plant may have. You should also always consult with an eye doctor about your eye health. Using bilberry in addition to other recommended treatments will most likely produce the best results.

Learn more about health supplements and the benefits they may have on your health.