Bilberry fruit has been used in traditional European medicine
for nearly one thousand years. Due to its tannin content, it is
used internally to treat acute diarrhea, particularly in
children, and externally to treat mild inflammation of oral
mucous membranes. Bilberry is used as a component in a few
astringent tea preparations. Fruit preparations are used to
treat microcirculatory disorders, which include varicose veins,
atherosclerosis, venous insufficiency, and degenerative retinal
conditions, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and
cataracts. Possible mechanisms of action for its effects on
ophthalmic conditions include its ability to protect against the
breakdown of rhodopsin (retinal purple), a light sensitive
pigment located in the rods of the retina, and its ability to
regenerate rhodopsin. It may also provide vasoprotection by
decreasing capillary fragility and permeability. Several human
clinical studies have been found in the literature investigating
possible new uses for bilberry, particularly