What is Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus)?
Bilberry extract is extracted from the fruits of Vaccinium myrtillus , a shrub that grows primarily in the mountainous and wooded regions of Northern and Central Europe. Unlike the larger, domesticated bilberries found in supermarkets, the wild bilberry is smaller, darker, and also has a deep purple flesh on the inside.
This color difference isn't random; it's the direct result of the presence of anthocyanins. These are natural pigments belonging to the flavonoid family. Wild blueberries produce these substances as a protective mechanism against challenging environmental factors in the wild, such as UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. These active ingredients are concentrated in extract form, allowing for a higher dosage than is possible through regular food.
The Biological Role of Anthocyanins
The power of bilberry extract lies in its specific composition of anthocyanins. Scientific analysis shows that bilberry contains more than fifteen different types of anthocyanidins, including delphinidin, cyanidin, and petunidin.
These compounds play various roles in the human body:
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Antioxidant activity: Anthocyanins are known for their ability to neutralize free radicals. This process helps protect healthy cells and tissues from oxidative damage.
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Supports microcirculation: The active ingredients in the extract have a positive effect on the integrity of small blood vessels (capillaries). This is particularly relevant for tissues that rely heavily on fine blood flow, such as the retina in the eye.
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Interaction with rhodopsin: In the context of visual perception, bilberry extract is often associated with the resynthesis of rhodopsin, a pigment in the eye essential for dark adaptation.
The Difference: Bilberry vs. Blueberry
In the consumer market, the terms 'bilberry' and 'blueberry' are often used interchangeably, but for the quality of an extract, the distinction is crucial.
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Origin: The blueberry ( Vaccinium corymbosum ) is native to North America and is widely cultivated. The bilberry ( Vaccinium myrtillus ) grows wild in Europe.
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Nutrient density: Bilberries contain significantly higher concentrations of anthocyanins than their cultivated counterparts. Furthermore, the concentration of anthocyanins in bilberries is found throughout the fruit, while in blueberries it's primarily concentrated in the skin.
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Quality Assurance: High-quality supplements use standardized extracts of Vaccinium myrtillus . This guarantees that each dose contains an exact percentage of active ingredients, often standardized to 25% anthocyanins.
Why choose a Standardized Extract?
When selecting a bilberry extract, purity and standardization are crucial. Because wild bilberries are a natural product, the concentration of active ingredients can vary depending on harvest and location. A standardized extract, such as Mirtoselect®, undergoes strict quality control to ensure consistent effectiveness. This process ensures that the extract is free of unwanted additives and that the ratio of the various anthocyanins remains optimal for biological absorption.
Application in a Conscious Lifestyle
Bilberry extract is an excellent addition to a regimen focused on long-term vitality and specific support. It is often used by:
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Individuals who spend a lot of time in front of screens and want to give their visual system extra attention.
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People who strive for optimal support of the blood vessels and microcirculation.
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Athletes and active seniors who want to provide their body with high-quality antioxidants.
Summary: Bilberry extract from Vaccinium myrtillus is a high-quality source of anthocyanins with a strong scientific basis. By focusing on protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting the fine-grained circulatory system, this extract offers a targeted addition to a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What's the best time to take bilberry extract? The extract can be taken throughout the day, preferably with a meal for optimal absorption of the flavonoids present.
Is blueberry extract the same as eating regular blueberries? While fresh blueberries are healthy, an extract provides a much higher and consistent concentration of the specific active ingredients (anthocyanins) described in scientific literature.
Are there any contraindications to using bilberry extract? Bilberry extract is generally very well tolerated. However, if you are taking blood-thinning medication, it is always advisable to consult a doctor beforehand, due to the extract's influence on blood vessels.
How do I recognize a high-quality bilberry supplement? Look for the Latin name Vaccinium myrtillus and check whether the extract is standardized to a specific percentage of anthocyanins (usually 25%). This guarantees the presence of the active ingredients.
