Lutein (Marigold) (Tagetes erecta)
Understanding Lutein:
Lutein is one of the more than 600 naturally occurring compounds known as carotenoids. Marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta L.) are a rich source of this nutrient. Lutein, a potent antioxidant, has been identified as a crucial nutrient for maintaining healthy vision. Numerous scientific and medical studies involving humans have demonstrated that lutein accumulates in the eyes, specifically within the macula and the lens. This has led many researchers to propose a significant role for lutein in decreasing the likelihood of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
How Lutein Supports Eye Health Lutein is a vital compound for the human body; however, the body cannot produce it on its own. The only way to obtain lutein is through consuming foods that contain it or by using dietary supplements. Lutein has been found in high concentrations in the macula, a small area in the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. The reason for this natural concentration is believed to be that lutein helps to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and high-energy light. Various research studies have indicated a direct correlation between the amount of lutein consumed and the level of pigmentation in the eye. Several studies also suggest that an increase in macular pigment density reduces the risk of eye conditions such as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Blue light, present in both artificial indoor lighting and sunlight, is thought to contribute to oxidative stress and potential free radical damage in human eyes. Lutein acts as a filter for blue light and helps to neutralize reactive intermediates generated during photo-oxidation.
Clinical Study Findings
Research involving randomized controlled clinical trials has shown that supplementing with Lutein (L) and Zeaxanthin (Z), including meso-Zeaxanthin, can improve the management of eye disease. These trials have revealed that such supplementation increases macular pigment density, enhances visual function, and lowers the risk of progression from intermediate AMD to advanced AMD, particularly the neovascular form.
In a study conducted under double-blind conditions, patients with early AMD who consumed xanthophylls (consisting of 10 mg of purified lutein and 0.3 mg of zeaxanthin), with or without additional antioxidants, experienced a 50% increase in macular pigment optical density (MPOD). They also showed significant improvements in various visual function parameters, including recovery from glare, contrast sensitivity, and visual acuity.
Role in Maintaining Skin Health
- Helps to decrease lipid peroxidation.
- Enhances the elasticity of the skin.
- Increases the lipids present on the skin's surface.
- Improves skin hydration.
Recommended Intake
- Supplementation with lutein for a period of 6 months in patients with AMD resulted in a significant 27.9% increase in MPOD and improvements in visual function parameters, including the mean differential light threshold (MDLT) and visual acuity (VA).
- An open-label trial demonstrated that long-term supplementation with lutein led to a significant increase in macular pigment density.
- General recommendation for adults is between 10 to 30 mg per day.
Safety Information
- Risk assessment based on observed safe levels indicates strong evidence of safety for lutein intakes up to 20mg per day, although much higher amounts have been tested without reported adverse effects.
- Studies have shown that increasing doses of lutein supplements significantly raise the serum level of lutein, and doses up to 10 mg have been safely administered with no observed toxicity.
Available Product Forms
Lutein Ester
- Lutein 5%, 10%, 20%, 40% - Available in Oil and Powder forms.
- Lutein 80% Powder.
Lutein Free (LutiXan)
- Lutein 5%, 10%, 20%, 40% - Available in Oil and Powder forms.
- Lutein 75% Crystals.
Other Lutein Grades
- Lutein Water Dispersible 5%, 20% Powder.
- Lutein Beadlets 5%, 10%.
- Lutein Ester Co2 extracted 20%.