Eye Health
Bilberry is often considered as a remedy for certain eye conditions, including:
- Dry eyes [1]
- Glaucoma (a condition caused by pressure in the eye) [2]
- Cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye) [3]
- Eye fatigue
- Age-related macular degeneration (loss of vision due to aging)
- Night vision
- Retinitis pigmentosa (a rare disease of the light-sensitive area of the eye) [4]
So far, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support most of these uses for bilberry. There has been some preliminary research into bilberry supplementation for preventing eye fatigue.
Bilberry supplements for preventing eye fatigue have been the subject of some exploratory study. In comparison to those who took a placebo, video display terminal operators in a small 2015 trial who took a dietary supplement containing bilberry extract reported fewer subjective symptoms of eye fatigue.
In a more recent trial, it was discovered that 240 mg of bilberry extract, taken daily for 12 weeks, was effective in reducing eye fatigue brought on by prolonged usage of visual display devices.
The claim that bilberry supplements can enhance night vision has long been rejected by studies. Research on other facets of bilberry usage and eye health is scant to nonexistent.