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Wild Bilberry Extract
At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about wild bilberry extract. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Wild bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a small European berry that is one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins. In ORY® products, bilberry extract provides antioxidant support and helps skin look fresh and radiant. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Lab studies show strong antioxidant activity. We found no human clinical studies of topical bilberry extract. CIR has reviewed bilberry seed oil (safe as used) but not bilberry fruit extract.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: Lab study of bilberry phenolic compounds.
- Burnett, C. L., et al. (2017). Safety assessment of plant-derived fatty acid oils. International Journal of Toxicology, 36(3 Suppl), 51S–129S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581817740569
- What it shows: CIR assessment covering bilberry seed oil.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Bilberry extract is made from ripe berries with water, glycerin, or alcohol and is often standardized to anthocyanins. It also contains vitamin C, phenolic acids, and tannins. |
Verification: Supported. Bilberry chemistry is well documented. Anthocyanins break down with light, heat, and alkaline pH.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: Describes bilberry compounds.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Bilberry extract suits all skin types. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no cosmetic clinical studies by skin type.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: General composition.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, bilberry extract provides antioxidant support. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no clinical studies of bilberry on hair. ORY® haircare products are not intended to grow hair or treat scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: General composition.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
5. Benefits
Claim: Bilberry extract provides antioxidant support and helps skin look fresh and radiant. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In human skin cells in the lab, bilberry extract reduced UV-induced oxidative stress and DNA damage. These are cell studies, and ORY® bilberry products are not sunscreens. Claims to strengthen capillaries or treat rosacea or dark circles describe effects on the body and are drug claims; ORY® does not make them.
Citations:
- Svobodová, A., Rambousková, J., Walterová, D., & Vostálová, J. (2008). Bilberry extract reduces UVA-induced oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes: A pilot study. BioFactors, 33(4), 249–266. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.5520330402
- What it shows: Skin-cell study with UVA.
- Calò, R., & Marabini, L. (2014). Protective effect of Vaccinium myrtillus extract against UVA- and UVB-induced damage in a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells). Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 132, 27–35. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24577051/
- What it shows: Skin-cell study with UVA and UVB.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- What it shows: FDA regulates sun-protection claims as sunscreen drugs.
- Svobodová, A., Rambousková, J., Walterová, D., & Vostálová, J. (2008). Bilberry extract reduces UVA-induced oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes: A pilot study. BioFactors, 33(4), 249–266. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.5520330402
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Bilberry extract is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Bilberry is added for antioxidant benefit, not for color. Fruit juice and fruit-derived colors are approved by FDA only for foods, not cosmetics, so ORY® does not use bilberry to tint or tone products. Anthocyanins fade in soap.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 0.5–3% extract | Antioxidant serums, eye creams, creams, masks, and toners. |
| Haircare | 0.5–2% | Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp serums. |
| Handmade Soap | 1–2% extract | Added at trace. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–2% | Foundations and eye creams (not as a colorant). |
Citations:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- What it shows: FDA rules: color additives in cosmetics must be approved for that use.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
7. Pros
Claim: Exceptionally rich in antioxidant anthocyanins. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Supported by lab studies.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: Composition.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
8. Cons
Claim: Bilberry color is unstable, it can stain, and human evidence is lacking. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Color instability. Fades in light, heat, and alkaline pH.
- Staining. Concentrated extract can tint skin and fabric.
- Limited evidence. Studies are in cells, not people.
- Color rules. Not approved as a cosmetic colorant.
- No CIR assessment for the fruit extract.
Citations:
- Calò, R., & Marabini, L. (2014). Protective effect of Vaccinium myrtillus extract against UVA- and UVB-induced damage in a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells). Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 132, 27–35. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24577051/
- What it shows: Cell evidence.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- What it shows: Color rules.
- Calò, R., & Marabini, L. (2014). Protective effect of Vaccinium myrtillus extract against UVA- and UVB-induced damage in a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells). Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 132, 27–35. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24577051/
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- What it shows: Composition.
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Bujor, O. C., Le Bourvellec, C., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., & Dufour, C. (2016). Seasonal variations of the phenolic constituents in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) leaves, stems and fruits, and their antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 213, 58–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.06.042
- Burnett, C. L., et al. (2017). Safety assessment of plant-derived fatty acid oils. International Journal of Toxicology, 36(3 Suppl), 51S–129S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581817740569
- Calò, R., & Marabini, L. (2014). Protective effect of Vaccinium myrtillus extract against UVA- and UVB-induced damage in a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells). Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 132, 27–35. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24577051/
- Svobodová, A., Rambousková, J., Walterová, D., & Vostálová, J. (2008). Bilberry extract reduces UVA-induced oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes: A pilot study. BioFactors, 33(4), 249–266. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.5520330402
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
