Dr. Grossman’s Blog

Further studies indicate that bilberry and pine bark extracts can reduce ocular hypertension, a condition related to visual impairment and glaucoma (source: Clinical Ophthalmology, 2010, Volume 4, Pages 471-476).

Bilberry is also associated with improving other eye conditions including cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.  Both cataracts and macular degeneration in particular have been attributed to damage caused by free radicals that can be combated through increased intake of antioxidants. Bilberry’s flavonoids are known as potent antioxidants that can scavenging free radicals and help ward off multiple age-related eye diseases.

Research shows bilberry extract helps fight against macular degeneration and cataracts in lab rats

Cataracts and macular degeneration are the major cause of vision deterioration in the elderly. A study by Russian scientists shows that taking bilberry supplements may help ward off these diseases.

Researchers used a particular strain of lab rats (OXYS rats) capable of reproducing many of the key features of human age-related cataracts and macular degeneration. From 1.5 to 3 months, these rats were given either a control diet or a diet supplemented with bilberry extract.

At 3 months, more then 70% of the rats in the control group had cataract and macular degeneration. Rats in the group given bilberry extract had no impairments in the lenses and retina.

Bilberry is also known as European blueberry, and is closely related to North American wild and cultivated blueberries and huckleberries. Bilberry is known to be a potent antioxidant and has been shown to help other vision problems such as glaucoma. (Read more about bilberry and glaucoma).

Results suggest that long-term supplementation with bilberry extract is effective in prevention of macular degeneration and cataract.

Read more research on cataracts and macular degeneration

Learn about natural bilberry supplements

Source: “Dietary supplementation with bilberry extract prevents macular degeneration and cataracts in senesce-accelerated OXYS rats”, Fursova et al, Adv Gerontol, 2005; 16: 76-9.

Researchers in Italy have released a study indicating that nutritional supplements of bilberry and French maritime pine bark can help reduce intra-ocular pressure (IOP). While several factors contribute to the development of glaucoma, elevated IOP is one of the greatest risks. An improved ocular blood flow may help prevent glaucoma.

Authors of the study from the University of Chieti-Pescara in Italy studied thirty-eight subjects with intraocular hypertension. Twenty subjects were given bilberry and French maritime pine bark; eighteen subjects were not treated. The visual acuity, IOP, and ocular blood flow were measured at two, three, and six months. After two months, the group taking the supplements showed a decrease in the mean IOP. No side effects were observed and ocular blood flow improved.

Having reviewed the results, these researchers believe that food supplements of bilberry and pine bark may represent a safe preventative intervention for lowering the risk of developing glaucoma by supporting a healthier pressure in the eyes.

Read more research on glaucoma

Learn about bilberry and other natural supplements for healthy vision

SOURCE: “Effects of Mirtogenol on ocular blood flow and intraocular hypertension in asymptomatic subjects”, Robert Steigerwalt Jr., et al, Molecular Vision 2008; 14:1288-1292.

Macular degeneration has been found to be a nutritionally responsive eye disease, as demonstrated in numerous peer review research studies. Some of the following nutrients have been show to help prevent the onset of macular degeneration, while all of the nutrients below can help preserve vision … for those with macular degeneration including the following: lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, lycopene, vitamins A and E, zinc, copper, betacarotene, selenium, as well as gingko biloba for circulation, bilberry and glutathione.

See our list and summary of related peer review research studies and Dr. Grossman’s free monthly natural eye care newsletter.

See info on how to use the amsler grid to self-test for macular degeneration.