While many medicinal herbs are not recommended during pregnancy, bilberry is one of the few herbs that is safe and beneficial when taken before, during and after pregnancy. Bilberry is a plant related to cranberry and blueberry, and it is often used in herbal preparations to stimulate circulation, prevent hemorrhoids, improve eyesight and fight free radicals. Consult with your doctor and a registered medical herbalist before purchasing bilberry products, to make sure that they are right for you.
Pre-conception
Bilberry can protect and support your health during the weeks or months leading up to your pregnancy. According to Francesca Naish and Janette Roberts, authors of "The Natural Way to Better Babies," bilberry is recommended during pre-conception care to promote the health of the reproductive system, and fight bacterial infections of the urinary tract. Bilberry has specific antibacterial properties against pathogens such as e. coli, and, like cranberry, helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. Consume bilberries in your diet, drink bilberry juice or purchase bilberry supplements recommended by a health care professional.
Pregnancy
Bilberry is an edible food that is safe to use during all stages of pregnancy. It is a rich source of vitamins, antioxidants and dietary fiber. According to a review of research published by the Chiropractic Resource Organization, bilberry extract may even prevent certain health problems associated with pregnancy. In two trials investigating the effects of bilberry in 115 pregnant women, bilberry improved symptoms of venous insufficiency and hemorrhoids significantly, while causing no adverse reactions. If you purchase bilberry products, do so under the supervision of your doctor and midwife.
Breast-feeding
No adverse reactions or side effects are expected when you take bilberry while you are breast-feeding. According to Kerry Bones, herbalist and author of "The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety," bilberry is safe for use during lactation and breast-feeding. Traditionally, bilberry has been used as an anti-galactagogue to reduce the flow of breast milk, but there is currently no scientific evidence to support this folk use.
Toxicity
Bilberry is considered safe, nontoxic and well tolerated by the majority of the population. According to Drugs.com, there are no documented adverse reactions, drug interactions or toxic effects related to the use of bilberry as a medicinal herb or as a food. When selecting whole bilberries, avoid fruit that has been affected by insects or mold, or sprayed heavily with pesticides. Consult with your doctor before combining bilberry products with prescribed medications.
References
- "The Natural Way to Better Babies"; Francesca Naish and Janette Roberts; 1996
- Chiropractic Resource Organization; Herbal Medicine; Michael Balick, Ph.D., et al.
- "The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety"; Kerry Bone; 2005
- Drugs.com: Bilberry
