Herb Pharm Bilberry

Our assessment

Our assessment: The evidence for bilberry is limited, and this specific product contains only bilberry as an active ingredient. Data for the active ingredient calcium is available, but it is not a primary component of this supplement. Therefore, we must focus on the general safety data from FDA reports for all dietary supplements. The FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for dietary supplements, which underscores the importance of caution with any supplement [FDA data].

How it works

Data for bilberry's specific mechanism is not available in the provided data. However, the ingredient calcium, which is not in this product, works through bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. For bilberry, the specific mechanism of action is not described in the provided data. Think of any supplement as a complex substance that can interact with your body in ways that are not always fully understood.

Safety profile

Data not available for bilberry-specific side effects or adverse events. The FDA data provided is for all dietary supplements combined, totaling 592,059 adverse event reports [FDA data]. This number highlights that side effects are possible with any supplement. Without specific data on bilberry, we cannot list specific side effects or their report counts for this product.

Our recommendation

Data not available to support a specific recommendation for bilberry. Because the provided data does not include specific studies, side effects, or dosage information for bilberry, we cannot confidently recommend this product. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially given the large number of general adverse events reported to the FDA [FDA data].

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide