Effects of black current anthocyanoside intake on dark adaptation and VDT work-induced transient refractive alteration in healthy humans

Altern Med Rev. 2000 Dec;5(6):553-62.

Abstract

The effects of oral intake of a black currant anthocyanosides (BCA) concentrate on dark adaptation, video display terminal (VDT) work-induced transient refractive alteration, and subjective asthenopia symptoms (visual fatigue) were examined in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study with healthy human subjects. In a dark adaptation study, intake of BCA at three dose levels (12.5-, 20-, and 50 mg/subject, n = 12) appeared to bring about dose-dependent lowering of the dark adaptation threshold. Statistical analysis comparing the values before and after intake indicated there was a significant difference at the 50 mg dose (p= 0. 011). Comparing the refraction values for the dominant eye, BCA intake (50 mg/subject, n = 21) resulted in no decrease in the average value after the visual task; whereas, a placebo trial resulted in a large decrease in the average value, resulting in borderline significance (p = 0.064). In the assessment of subjective asthenopia symptoms by questionnaire, significant improvement was recognized on the basis of the statements regarding the eye and lower back after BCA intake.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Controlled Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anthocyanins / therapeutic use*
  • Asthenopia / drug therapy*
  • Computer Terminals*
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Dark Adaptation / drug effects*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use*
  • Refractive Errors / drug therapy*
  • Refractive Errors / etiology

Substances

  • Anthocyanins
  • Plant Extracts