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Side Effects of Bilberry

Bilberry, also called European blueberry, is closely related to the blueberry and huckleberry. It has long been valued for its health benefits. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, contains high levels of antioxidants, and supports vision health, among other benefits. However, consuming bilberry may cause a number of side effects.

  1. Anticoagulant

    • Bilberry is rich in active compounds called anthocyanosides that have strong anticoagulant properties. For this reason, taking bilberry will slow down the rate at which blood clots. If you have a blood-clotting disorder, this can have a harmful effect. It will also impair the effectiveness of medications for bleeding disorders.

    Drug Interactions

    • Because of bilberry's anticoagulant properties, it tends to interact negatively with some prescription and over-the-counter medications, including aspirin, warfarin and heparin. It may also interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin, Advil and Aleve. When taken at the same time as these medications, it can cause blood-related complications such as poor clotting and increased risk of bleeding when wounded.

    Toxicity

    • Bilberry has been found to be toxic when taken in dosages that exceed 480 mg. The active ingredients in this herb can accumulate to toxic levels, poisoning the body and even causing death. It is essential to limit your intake to recommended levels, or consult with a healthcare provider if you want to increase your dosage. According to Baptist Health Systems, the recommended dosage for a standardized extract of bilberry is 120 mg to 240 mg, taken twice a day.

    Allergic Reaction

    • In a few rare cases, taking bilberry will cause an allergic reaction, which may include hives, swelling of the tongue, lips and face, tightness in the throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience the symptoms of an allergic reaction to bilberry, seek immediate medical attention.

    Hypoglycemia

    • Taking bilberry helps to lower blood sugar, which is beneficial if you suffer from elevated levels of blood sugar. However, if you are taking medication to lower your blood sugar levels, then taking bilberry at the same time may cause hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar. This effect may also result if you take bilberry with other herbs that also help lower blood sugar levels such as ginger, fenugreek and garlic.

    Considerations

    • There is no information on the effect of bilberry on a fetus or baby. For this reason, it is important for pregnant and nursing women to consult their doctors before using bilberry. Its effect on young children has not been scientifically documented as yet, either.

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