10 Possible Side Effects Of Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry)

Vaccinium myrtillus has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications.

Causes of these side effects include excessive consumption, individual sensitivities, and pre-existing medical conditions.

For example, people who take Vaccinium myrtillus to treat blood sugar issues may experience worsened symptoms of hypoglycemia if they do not monitor their blood sugar levels carefully, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and poor quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Vaccinium myrtillus if used imporperly.

1. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus causes allergic reactions in some individuals.

This is often attributed to the presence of proteins and other allergenic compounds found in the fruit's extract. Some people may develop sensitivity to these components, leading to symptoms such as skin rash, itching, and respiratory issues upon exposure or consumption.

The exact mechanisms behind this allergic response are not fully understood, but it is thought that the immune system incorrectly identifies the foreign substances as harmful, triggering an overactive response that manifests as an allergic reaction.

2. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus induces gastrointestinal upset.

This side effect is often attributed to the high anthocyanin content in blueberries, which can cause stomach irritation and discomfort. The tannins present in the fruit may also contribute to this issue by binding to proteins in the digestive tract and altering gut function.

Additionally, the acidity of the berries could irritate the mucous membranes in the digestive system, leading to nausea, bloating, and other symptoms of gastrointestinal upset.

3. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus increases blood pressure due to its high concentration of anthocyanins and flavonoids.

These bioactive compounds can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood vessel constriction, which in turn elevate blood pressure. Additionally, the plant's ability to increase nitric oxide production can also contribute to blood pressure increases by relaxing blood vessels too little or not at all.

As a result, individuals may experience an increase in their systolic blood pressure when consuming Vaccinium myrtillus.

4. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus lowers blood sugar levels due to its ability to inhibit glucose absorption in the gut and stimulate insulin secretion.

The anthocyanins and other polyphenolic compounds present in Vaccinium myrtillus extracts may interact with certain enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, leading to a decrease in blood glucose concentrations.

As a result, individuals taking Vaccinium myrtillus supplements should be aware of this potential effect on their blood sugar levels.

5. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus triggers respiratory issues due to its allergenic properties.

The plant contains a high amount of anthocyanins and flavonoids, which can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Additionally, the plant's ability to stimulate the immune system can also exacerbate existing respiratory conditions, making it essential for individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues to exercise caution when consuming Vaccinium myrtillus.

6. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus causes skin rash due to its high concentration of anthocyanins and flavonoids.

These compounds can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals, leading to the development of a skin rash.

The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed that these compounds interact with skin cells, triggering an immune response that results in inflammation and redness.

7. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus produces nausea and vomiting.

This side effect is likely due to the plant's high concentration of anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds, which can stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and cause unpleasant symptoms.

Additionally, the fruit's astringent properties may also contribute to these adverse effects by irritating the mucous membranes in the stomach and intestines.

8. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus increases heart rate due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system.

The high concentration of anthocyanins and flavonoids in Vaccinium myrtillus can enhance sympathetic activity, leading to increased cardiac output and heart rate.

Additionally, the compound quercetin found in Vaccinium myrtillus may also contribute to this effect by increasing the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that regulates heart rate.

9. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus worsens kidney function due to its ability to alter the body's natural pH balance and increase urine production.

This can put additional strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to worsening of existing kidney disease or exacerbating kidney damage in individuals with normal kidney function.

The exact mechanisms behind this interaction are not yet fully understood, but it is thought that the berries' high concentration of anthocyanins may play a role.

10. Affects liver enzyme activity

Vaccinium myrtillus interferes with medication absorption by binding to bile acids in the gut, thereby reducing their ability to facilitate the uptake of certain medications.

This can lead to reduced efficacy and potentially increased side effects of these medications.

The anthocyanins present in Vaccinium myrtillus are thought to be responsible for this interaction, as they have been shown to bind to bile salts and alter their metabolism.