Bilberry Extract Side Effects

Bilberry is classified under the genus name Vaccinium that has many related species. The plants belonging to this genus are shrubs and bear edible, berry type fruits. However, the actual bilberry shrub that is frequently used for therapeutic purpose is V. myrtillus. The bilberry fruits are similar to blueberries, except that the former is smaller and darker in shade. Also, unlike blueberries that are borne in clusters, bilberries develop singly or in pairs.

Bilberry fruits are eaten fresh or dried. They are also prepared as teas, juices, jams, pies and flavored drinks. And bilberry extract is the dietary supplement formulated from the berries. It is available in the form of tablets in different concentrations. Bilberries, either raw fruits or extracts, contain useful active ingredients - anthocyanidin (a type of flavonoid) and tannin, which helps in proper blood circulation and improving night vision.

While formulating bilberry extract for therapeutic uses, the anthocyanidin and tannin content are standardized to a certain concentration. In brief, the supplement form contains a higher percentage of the active ingredients than the raw fruit. Similar to any herbal product, there are both benefits and sides effects of bilberry extract. Bilberry extract side effects are basically developed due to an overdose of the extract, when advocated more than the recommended concentration.

Bilberry Extract: Dose and Side Effects

In order to maintain healthy blood circulation and good eyesight, the prescribed dose for bilberry extract is approximately 60-160 milligrams per day, while that of raw bilberry fruits is 20-60 grams daily. Nevertheless, the appropriate bilberry extract dosage for an individual depends upon various factors like the age, general health, any underlying medical problem and more importantly, the objective for which the extract is being taken. Also, the recommended dose may differ from one brand to another, based on the concentration of the active ingredients.

As mentioned already, bilberry side effects are rare, as long as the prescribed dose is not exceeded. Main reasons for developing unusual symptoms after consuming this diary supplement are overdose, contaminated products and medicine interactions. If you are an expecting mother or undergoing treatment for other health problems, make sure you seek advice from your concerned doctor, while taking bilberry extract. Some of the reported adverse effects manifested after advocating bilberry extract are as follows:

• Diarrhea - A common side effect of bilberry extract is passing stool frequently, more than the usual routine. Such a condition usually resolves on its own within a few days.
• Skin Rashes - Bilberry extract causes skin symptoms in a few people. Those individuals who are allergic to berries are at a higher risk of developing this adverse effect than others.
• Medicine Interaction - Bilberry extract may interact with blood thinning medication, which in turn may lead to blood clotting problems. To be on the safer side, do not take bilberry extract with such medicines or alternately, seek your doctor's advice.
• Low Blood Sugar - The benefits of bilberry extract includes lowering the blood sugar level. Hence, people who are on diabetic medication may experience stronger effects of the drugs, which at times causes hypoglycemia complications.
• Weight Loss - The tannin content in bilberry extract may lead to weight loss, when consumed over an extant period of time. Thus, make sure you analyze the after effects of taking bilberry extract, before consuming it.

Even though bilberry extract side effects are not very serious, it is recommended to quit taking the extract in case of any unusual symptoms. And ensure that you consult the doctor before taking the supplements again. If necessary, the physician may reduce the dose of bilberry extract to avoid side effects.