Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a close cousin of the blueberry. Its deep purple flesh packs high levels of anthocyanins, pigments that act as antioxidants. For generations people have turned to the berry for eye and circulation support.
Extracts standardized to a set percentage of anthocyanins are the most common form. Food amounts supply modest antioxidant benefits. Some early work looked at night vision and eye fatigue, though the findings are not consistent. The berry also draws interest for general vascular and antioxidant defenses.
You can find bilberry as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, and dried berries. Doses depend on the form, but extracts typically list their anthocyanin strength. Taking it alongside a meal helps absorption.
Watch for blood sugar dips if you take diabetes medications. Bilberry has a mild blood thinning quality, so combining it with warfarin or antiplatelet drugs may raise bleeding concerns. Stop using it two weeks ahead of any planned surgery. Pregnant or nursing women should limit use to ordinary food amounts unless their doctor says otherwise.