Possible Interactions with: Bilberry
Also listed as: Bilberry; European Blueberry; Huckleberry; Vaccinium myrtillus
Interactions
Blood-thinning medications, anticoagulants
- In theory, because the anthocyanidins in bilberry may inhibit blood from clotting, there may be an increased risk of bleeding in those taking anthocyanidin extracts from bilberry along with blood thinners, particularly warfarin. This has not been tested scientifically, but those taking warfarin or other blood thinners in the same class, known as anticoagulants, should be very careful if considering use of bilberry and should be followed closely by a doctor who will check your INR (a measurement to indicate, in part, your risk of bleeding).
There has been one case report of a woman taking many herbs and supplements, including bilberry, experiencing a serious bleed following surgery for breast cancer. The other herbs and supplements she was taking that may have contributed to the risk of bleeding include ginkgo, ginseng, and vitamin E.
The whole bilberry fruit, therefore, which contains both anthocyanidins and tannins (that may help stop bleeding) is likely safer if you are on a blood thinner than the isolated anthocyanidin extracts.
Drug Interactions
Blood-thinning Medications
|
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's
accreditation program
is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s
editorial process
. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2007
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
