Bilberry and Gout

Bilberries are a species of low growing shrubs of the genus Vaccinium. They are found in acidic, nutrient-poor soils throughout the temperate and subarctic regions of the world. They are a purple-black color.

The fresh fruit contains high quantities of water-soluble pigments called “anthocyanins” which give the fruit their distinctive color. And, luckily for gout sufferers, anthocyanins are strong antioxidants that have been shown to lower uric acid and reduce inflammation.

Gout is a common type of painful arthritis that occurs when an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood crystallizes in the joints. So any natural remedy that can lower uric acid levels and reduce inflammation is most welcome.

In addition to their uric acid and inflammation reducing powers, bilberries also have a collagen-stabilizing action which can help prevent the destruction of collagen in the joints, which often occurs as a result of repeated gout attacks.

As well as being eaten fresh, bilberries can be taken as an oral supplement or as a tea.

For a tea, just add 1 teaspoon of dried bilberry leaves to 1 cup of water. Bring to the boil and steep for 10 minutes. Drink hot or cold three times a day.

It is also available in capsule form. A capsule that has 25% anthocyanosides can be taken in the amount of 240 to 600 milligrams per day in divided doses.

However, there are some people for whom taking bilberries as a natural remedy could be problematic:-
It is known that bilberries can decrease glucose levels in the blood, so diabetic patients should first consult with their doctor and get professional advice before taking it.

Patients with bleeding problems or who are taking blood-thinning medication should also consult with their doctor first, because bilberries can thin the blood.

Finally, as a general rule, anyone even thinking of starting a herbal program of any kind ought to check with their doctor to ensure that the herbs will not react with any medications they may be taking and / or exacerbate any health condition they may already have.

To summarize, bilberries are easy to obtain, low cost, non-habit forming, and can be a very effective natural remedy for gout patients. Read more