Bilberry Leaf Benefits And Its Side effects
Bilberry leaf contains chemicals called tannins that may help reduce swelling and inflammation. The chemicals in bilberry leaves may also help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improve circulation in people with diabetes.
However, there is limited scientific evidence to support many of the purported health benefits of bilberry leaf. While some small studies suggest bilberry leaf may improve eye fatigue and reduce gum inflammation, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time, and may interact with certain medications like diabetes drugs and blood thinners. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should stick to food amounts of bilberry rather than supplemental doses.
In summary, the evidence for the health benefits of bilberry leaf is mixed. More high-quality clinical trials are needed to determine its efficacy for various conditions. Caution is advised when using bilberry leaf, especially in high doses or for extended periods.
Bilberry Leaf Side effects
Here are the key points about the potential side effects of bilberry leaf: Bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long period of time. Some potential side effects include:
- Allergic reactions like hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, and difficulty breathing
- Lowering of blood sugar levels, especially when taken with diabetes medications
- Increased risk of bleeding and bruising, especially when taken with blood thinners or anticoagulant drugs
- Interactions with medications broken down by the liver, potentially affecting their effects
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should stick to food amounts of bilberry rather than taking supplements, as the safety of higher medicinal doses is not well established.
Overall, caution is advised when using bilberry leaf, especially in high doses or for extended periods, and it should not be combined with certain medications without medical supervision. More research is needed on the long-term safety of bilberry leaf supplements.