Side Effects of Billberry

Bilberry is a type of fruit that is related to the blueberry. In its dried form, it has a long history of being used as a natural remedy. It has many varied medicinal uses, including treatment of inflammation of the mucus membrane, diarrhea and several eye conditions (such as eyestrain, night vision issues and myopia). As with any type of medicine, there are some possible side effects that are occasionally associated with use of bilberry.

Common Side Effects

• There are several common side effects that can be linked to bilberry use. In cases of common side effects, they are generally considered to be minor and no cause for alarm. They usually go away on their own as the body gets used to the bilberry. However, if they get worse or persist, medical attention might be required. These common side effects include stomach upset, dry mouth and dry eyes.

Serious Side Effects

• Some serious side effects are also possible with bilberry. In cases of serious and potentially dangerous side effects, individuals should cease using bilberry immediately and seek medical attention. Some serious bilberry side effects are signs of allergic reaction, like breaking out into hives, skin rash, trouble with breathing, chest tightness and swelling of the lips, mouth, face and tongue.

Caution

• It is crucial to exercise caution when considering using bilberry, particularly for those who have a blood clotting condition or bleeding disorders. These individuals should consult their physicians about bilberry beforehand. Those taking blood clot medication, antioxidants, herbs or other nutritional supplements should also talk to their doctor. Bilberry could potentially alter the blood clotting time in certain individuals.

Pregnant and Nursing Females

• Females that are pregnant, nursing or planning on becoming pregnant should talk to their doctors about bilberry use. It is not known for certain whether bilberry can cause damage to unborn babies. In situations of breastfeeding, it is also not certain whether bilberry is excreted into breast milk, which could possibly damage a baby.

Drug Interactions

• Drug interactions can occur when more than one medicine or nutritional supplement is taken at the same time. Drug interactions could lead to bad side effects, or the decrease or increase of the effectiveness of one or both of the medicines. Certain medicines pose the risk of drug interaction with bilberry, especially aspirin, heparin, warfarin, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), ardeparin, enoxaparin and danaparoid.