Evidence supporting the use of: Bilberry
For the health condition: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, primarily for eye health and circulatory conditions. Its use for digestive problems, including symptoms similar to those found in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), is also documented in folk medicine, particularly as a remedy for mild diarrhea. The berries contain anthocyanins and other polyphenols, believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Some traditional texts and herbal compendia note bilberry’s astringent properties, which may be why it has been used for gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or mild intestinal irritation. However, these uses are largely based on anecdotal and historical evidence rather than modern clinical trials.

The scientific evidence for bilberry’s efficacy in treating or supporting IBS specifically is limited. While there are studies highlighting bilberry’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials, research directly evaluating its effect on IBS symptoms is scant. One small pilot study (2018) suggested potential benefits of a bilberry anthocyanin-rich extract for mild ulcerative colitis (an inflammatory bowel condition rather than IBS), but these results cannot be directly extrapolated to IBS. In summary, while there is a traditional basis for bilberry’s use in mild digestive complaints, robust scientific validation, especially for IBS, is lacking.

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