|
| Bilberry is the dry extract of the European Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus: Myrtilli fructus). Interestingly, this is an herbal medicine that is thousands of years into use as a folk remedy for loose stool (especially recommended for children,) but it's most promising current application is for use in supporting the health of the eye. Its high levels of tannic acid, cinnamic acids, flavonols, anthocyanidins, and isoflavones make it highly beneficial to the eye. Dry macular degeneration and other age-related eye diseases are often caused by a breakdown of the circulatory system of the eye. Bilberry extracts have been shown to improve microcapillary circulation throughout the body. The macula is the central and most vital area of the retina. It records images and sends them via the optic nerve from the eye to the brain. The macula is responsible for focusing central vision that is needed for seeing fine detail, reading, driving, and recognizing facial features. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 55, affecting more than 10 million Americans. It is a condition in which the central portion of the retina (the macula) deteriorates. It is equally common in men and women and more common in whites than blacks. The cause is unknown, but the condition tends to run in some families. Macular degeneration affects more Americans than cataracts and glaucoma combined. There are two forms of macular degeneration: atrophic (dry) and exudative (wet). Approximately 85 to 90% of the cases are the dry type. Both forms of the disease may affect both eyes simultaneously. Vision can become severely impaired, with central vision rather than peripheral vision affected. The ability to see color is generally not affected, and total blindness from the condition is rare. Dietary supplementation of trace elements, antioxidants, and vitamins is recommended for improving overall metabolic and vascular functioning. Early screening and patient education offer the most hope for reducing the debilitating effects of the disease. |
 |
  |
|