Michael T. Murray, N.D. See book keywords and concepts |
An anthocyanoside consists of a backbone molecule known as anthocyanidin bound to one of three sugars (arabinose, glucose, or galactose). More than fifteen different anthocyanosides originate from the five different anthocyanidins found in bilberry.2
Other members of the genus Vaccinium, as well as Ribes nigum (black currant) and Vitis vinifera (grape), contain similar anthocyanosides.3 Extracts of these fruit are also used for medicinal purposes in Europe.
The concentration of anthocyanosides in the fresh fruit is approximately 0.1 to 0. |
| The following doses should be taken three times daily:
Anthocyanosides (calculated as anthocyanidin): 20-40 milligrams Bilberry extract (25 percent anthocyanidin content): 80-160 milligrams
Toxicity
Extensive toxicological investigation confirms that bilberry anthocyanoside extracts are devoid of toxic effects. Rats administered doses as high as 400 milligrams per kilogram showed no apparent side effects, and excess levels were quickly excreted through the urine and bile.1754
References
1. Grieve M: A Modern Herbal, Vol. 1. Dover Publications, New York, 1971, pp. 385-386.
2. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D., Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. See book keywords and concepts |
European bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) extract is particularly rich in these flavonoid and anthocyanidin compounds. It has been used in Europe with good results in a variety of eye complaints, and may prove useful in
QUICK REVIEW
• Glaucoma is a major cause of blindness in adults.
• Treatment and prevention of both acute and chronic glaucoma is dependent upon: (1) reduction of intraocular pressure, and (2) improvement of collagen metabolism within the eye. • Magnesium supplementation lowers intraocular pressure. the treatment of glaucoma. |
Ralph Golan, M.D. See book keywords and concepts |
The usual dose is a 25 percent extract, 80 to 160 milligrams three times a day; or anthocyanosides (calculated as anthocyanidin), 20 to 40 milligrams three times a day; or fresh berries, 2 to 4 ounces three times a day. Bilberry and GINKGO have similar and synergistic actions and can be found formulated together.
Uses
Macular degeneration
Glaucoma
Cataract
Diabetic retinopathy Poor night vision Rheumatoid arthritis Osteoarthritis Gout
Periodontal disease Varicose veins Venous insufficiency Microscopic hematuria Atherosclerosis
Bromelain
This enzyme is extracted from pineapple. It:
1. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D., Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Widely used pharmaceutical preparations in Europe are standardized for anthocyanidin content (typically twenty-five percent). These extracts are also available in the United States. The standard dose is 80 to 160 mg three times per day.
Ginkgo biloba
Although the primary clinical application of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is cerebral vascular insufficiency,113114 GBE has also been shown to improve the blood flow to peripheral tissues in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. This is an important effect, as peripheral vascular insufficiency is common in diabetics. |
Gary Null, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts |
ANTHOCYANIDIN Fruit ARGININE Fruit 180—1,458 ppm ARSENIC Fruit 0.001—0.053 ppm ASCORBIC-ACID Fruit 14—1,127 ppm ASH Bark 63,000 ppm ASH Fruit 4,000—150,000 ppm ASPARTIC-ACID Fruit 1,170—8,586 ppm BARIUM Fruit 0.045—30 ppm BENZALDEHYDE Fruit BENZYL-ACET ATE Fruit BENZYL-ALCOHOL Fruit BETA-CAROTENE Fruit 0—30 ppm BORON Fruit 1 — 150 ppm BROMINE Fruit CADMIUM Fruit 0—0.45 ppm CALCIUM Fruit 18—8,850 ppm CARBOHYDRATES Fruit 111,000—910,000 ppm
CHROMIUM Fruit 0.01—2.25 ppm
CITRIC-ACID Fruit COBALT Fruit 0.005—0.45 ppm COPPER Fruit 0. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 1Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Only very small amounts of free anthocyanidins exist in nature and in V. myrtillus extracts.
HISTORY AND FOLK USE
Bilberries have, of course, been used as food and for their high nutritive value. Medicinally, they have been utilized in the treatment of scurvy and urinary complaints (including infection and stones).1 The dried berries have been used primarily for their astringent qualities in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery. Decoctions of the leaves have been used in the treatment of diabetes. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 2Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Botanical medicines (choose one)
• Ginkgo biloba extract (24% ginkgo heterosides): 40-80 mg three times/day
• Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) extract (25% anthocyanidin content): 40-80 mg three times/day
• Grape seed extract (95% procyanidolic content): 150-300 mg/day.
REFERENCES
1. Young RW. Pathophysiology of age-related macular degeneration. Survey Ophthalmol 1987; 31: 291-306
2. Newsome DA. Medical treatment of macular diseases. Ophthalmol Clinics North Amer 1993; 6: 307-314
3. Vinderling JR, Dielemans I, Bots ML. Age-related macular degeneration is associated with atherosclerosis. |
Gale Maleskey See book keywords and concepts |
The standard dose for an extract is based on its anthocyanidin content, which is usually standardized to 25 percent. Research studies have used 80 to 160 milligrams three times a day, but some doctors have found that 60 to 120 milligrams three times a day is effective.
Head-to-Toe Help from Ginkgo
People with diabetes frequently develop circulatory problems, especially in their legs. If these problems aren't resolved, the toes, feet, and legs can be damaged by impaired circulation. In worst cases, the damage can lead to amputation. |
Michael Janson, M.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Hawthorne also has many of the other properties of anthocyanidin flavonoids, such as reducing allergy reactions and improving the strength of capillaries. Because of the dilation of blood vessels, it may help with Raynaud's phenomenon (spasms of the blood vessels in the hands).
How to take
Capsules containing standardized extract of hawthorne berry (2% standard) usually contain 100-250 mg of extract. Typical doses for congestive heart failure would be 250 mg, twice per day. |
Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts |
These berries are rich in anthocyanidin and proantho-cyanidin, believed to help normalize uric acid levels.
130
Grapeseed—Grapeseed contains bioflavonoids, substances which give fruits their color. Bioflavonoids work with vitamin C to prevent the destruction of collagen, which can exacerbate arthritic symptoms.
Celery juice—This juice is an excellent diuretic that promotes the flow of urine through the kidneys and may relieve the symptoms of gout.
Personal advice
Avoiding the wrong foods can go a long way in preventing gout. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 2Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Pourrat H. anthocyanidin drugs in vascular disease. Plant Med Phytothera 1977; 11: 143-151
22. Ihme N, Kieswetter H, Jung F et al. Leg edema protection from buckwheat herb tea in patients with chronic venous insufficiency: a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1995; 50: 443-447
23. Kreysel HW, Nissen HP, Enghoffer E. A possible role of lysosomal enzymes in the pathogenesis of varicosis and the reduction in their serum activity by venostasin. VASA 1983; 12: 377-382
24. Visudhiphan S, Poolsuppasit S, Piboonnakarintr O, Tumliang S. |
| Widely used pharmaceutical preparations in Europe are standardized for anthocyanidin content (typically 25%). These extracts are also available in the US. The standard dose is 80-160 mg three times daily.
Ginkgo biloba
Although the primary clinical application of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is cerebral vascular insufficiency,112,113 GBE has also been shown to improve the blood flow to peripheral tissues like the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. This is an important effect, as peripheral vascular insufficiency is quite common in diabetes. |
Earl Mindell See book keywords and concepts |
Along with catechins and anthocyanidin, the antioxidant responsible for deep purple color in red grapes, it may account for "The French Paradox." Despite the fact that the French eat a diet of extremely high-fat, high-cholesterol food, they have one of the lowest rates of heart disease in the world. Researchers believe this is because of the red wine they drink with meals. If you're not a drinker, don't want the negative effects of alcohol overconsumption, and still want to reap the health benefits, there are alternatives. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 2Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Botanical medicines
• Vaccinium myrtillus extract (25% anthocyanidin content): 80 mg three times /day.
REFERENCES
1. Krupp M, Chatton M. Current medical diagnosis and treatment. Los Altos, CA: Lange Med. 1982: p 77-84
2. Tengroth B, Ammitzboll T. Changes in the content and composition of collagen in the glaucomatous eye - basis for a new hypothesis for the genesis of chronic open-angle glaucoma. Acta Ophthalmol 1984; 62: 999-1008
3. Weiss J, Jayson M. Collagen in health and disease. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone. 1982: p 388-403
4. Quigley H, Addicks E. |
Linda B. White, M.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Typical dosage: 80 to 160 milligrams in capsules standardized to 25 percent anthocyanidin content per day.
Yarrow (Alchillea millefolium)
Yarrow dilates arteries and helps to lower cholesterol. It is considered a blood vessel tonic, improving arterial health in general. Typical dosage:
Berry Good for the Heart
Huckleberries and blueberries have chemical compounds similar to those of the more medicinal bilberry. They may have similar benefits for the heart, too, so you have a good excuse to include these delicious berries in your diet. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 2Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Botanical medicines
• Bilberry extract (25% anthocyanidin content): 80 mg three times/day
• Hachimijiogan formula: 150 mg three times/day.
REFERENCES
1. Bouton S. Vitamin C and the aging eye. Arch Int Med 1939; 63: 930-945
2. Ringvold A, Johnsen H, Blika S. Senile cataract and ascorbic acid loading. Acta Ophthalmol 1985; 63: 277-280
3. Atkinson D. Malnutrition as an etiological factor in senile cataract. Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Monthly 1952; 31: 79-83
4. Rathbun W, Hanson S. Glutathione metabolic pathway as a scavenging system in the lens. Ophthal Res 1979; 11: 172-176
5. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 1Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Anthelminthic - a substance which causes the elimination of intestinal worms. anthocyanidin - a particular class of flavonoids which gives plants, fruits, and flowers colors ranging from red to blue.
Antidote - a substance which neutralizes or counteracts the effects of a poison. Aphrodisiac - a substance which increases sexual desire. Astringent - an agent which causes the contraction of tissue.
Balm - a soothing or healing medicine applied to the skin.
Beta-carotene - pro-vitamin A. A plant carotene which can be converted to two vitamin A molecules. |
| Dosages are as follows:
• anthocyanosides (calculated as anthocyanidin): 20-40 mg three times/day
• Vaccinium myrtillus (25% extract): 80-160 mg three times/day
• fresh berries: 55-115 g three times/day.
TOXICOLOGY
Extensive toxicological investigation has demonstrated that V. myrtillus anthocyanoside extracts are devoid of toxic effects. Administration to rats of dosages as high as 400 mg/kg produces no apparent side-effects, and excess levels are quickly excreted through the urine and bile. |
Earl Mindell and Hester Mundis See book keywords and concepts |
That, along with catechins and anthocyanidin, the antioxidant responsible for the deep purple color of grapes, is bekeved to account for the "French Paradox."
But you don't have to be a wine drinker to reap the same rewards. Purple grape juice also contains reserveratrol (although in smaller quantities), and supplements are available. I'd suggest taking either one 1,000 meg reserveratrol capsule daily or two 30 mg polyphenol capsules.
96. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 1Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Anthocyanosides are composed of an aglycone (e.g. anthocyanidin) bound to one of three glycosides (arabinoside, glucoside, or galactoside). Over 15 different anthocyanosides originate from the five aglycones found in Vaccinium myrtillus (see Fig. 118.1).2 Other members of the genus Vaccinium, as well as Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant) and Vitis vinifera (grape), contain similar anthocyanosides.3 Extracts of these fruits are also used for medicinal purposes in Europe.
The concentration of anthocyanosides in the fresh fruit is approximately 0.1-0. |
Linda B. White, M.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Typical dosage: one 80- to 160-mil-ligram extract capsule standardized to 25 percent anthocyanidin three times per day. Caution: In rare cases bilberry may cause gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, or headaches.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Another powerful antioxidant, ginkgo has been shown to improve vision in people with macular degeneration. Typical dosage: one 40- to 60-milligram capsule standardized to 24 percent flavone glycosides three times per day. Caution: Ginkgo may cause gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, or headaches.
Memory Loss
MISPLACED YOUR KEYS LATELY? |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 2Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Vaccinium myrtillus (European bilberry) extract is particularly rich in these flavonoid and anthocyanidin compounds and has been used in Europe with good results in reducing myopia, improving nocturnal vision, and reversing diabetic retinopathy.15 Rutin has also been demonstrated to lower IOP when used as an adjunct in patients unresponsive to miotics alone.16
Allergy
The successful treatment of chronic glaucoma by anti-allergy measures has been reported in the literature. |