Bilberry, Chokeberry and Honeysuckle Berry May Improve Visual Acuity

A 2024 study found that an extract of chokeberry, honeysuckle berry and bilberry was significantly more effective than placebo at improving visual acuity in people over 50 years old with presbyopia who spend much of their working hours in front of screens. These berries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant. They are thought to be anti-inflammatory and work by increasing biosynthesis of rhodopsin, modulating activity of retina enzymes, and improving microcirculation. These berries may cause digestive or other side effects and could affect the enzymes that metabolize certain medications.

Szumny D, Kucharska AZ, Czajor K, Bernacka K, Ziółkowska S, Krzyżanowska-Berkowska P, Magdalan J, Misiuk-Hojło M, Sozański T, Szeląg A. Extract from Aronia melanocarpa, Lonicera caerulea, and Vaccinium myrtillus Improves near Visual Acuity in People with Presbyopia. Nutrients. 2024 Mar 23;16(7):926. doi: 10.3390/nu16070926. PMID: 38612968; PMCID: PMC11013737.

Nevin Sanlier, Ezgi Nur Cinar, Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) as a Bioactive Treasure: Insights into Its Health-Promoting Effects, Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 135, 2025, 107116, ISSN 1756-4646, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116.