Meta Information
ID:bilberry-extract
Name:Bilberry Extract
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Vaccinium myrtillus extract
- European Blueberry extract
Active Compound
Anthocyanins
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:food_supplement
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Targets oxidative stress, inflammation, and microvascular health to support healthy aging.
Typical Protocol
- Common protocols involve 80-160 mg of standardized bilberry extract (25% anthocyanins) taken once or twice daily.
- Higher doses up to 320-480 mg daily have been used in some clinical studies for specific indications.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
40
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Monthly cost for a quality bilberry extract supplement, not typically covered by insurance.
Summary
Bilberry extract is rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and systemic inflammation. These compounds support microvascular integrity, particularly in the retina, and may modulate pathways relevant to metabolic health and cellular aging. Its primary healthspan relevance lies in protecting cells and tissues from age-related damage.
Purpose
Potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, supporting microvascular and cellular health.
Card Summary
Bilberry extract, rich in anthocyanins, offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It supports microvascular health, particularly in the eyes, contributing to healthy aging by mitigating oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Drug Class
null
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
4.5
Justification:
Provides targeted antioxidant and vascular support, with moderate systemic healthspan impact.
Evidence
Grade:
B
Score:
5
Justification:
Some human trials support specific benefits, with observational data for broader health.
Safety
Score:
3
Justification:
Generally well-tolerated, mild gastrointestinal upset possible at high doses.
Flags
- May interact with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications due to mild anti-clotting effects.
- Individuals with allergies to bilberries or related plants should exercise caution.
- Long-term systemic healthspan effects require further extensive human trials.
Verdict
Supports vision and microvascular health; moderate healthspan optimizer.