Marigold Extract (Lycored Lutein, Meso-Zeaxanthin & Zeaxanthin)
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Form: Extract
Food source: Plant
Benefits of Marigold Extract
- Eye health
What is Marigold Extract?
Marigolds are a group of common ornamental flowers, grown around the world for their bright orange, yellow and red petals. It is these distinct colours that also make them interesting for nutrition purposes. What gives plants like Marigold their colours are a group of pigments called carotenoids and these carotenoids are important nutrients for our health, particularly the maintenance and protection of our eyesight.
The human retina is a layer of light-sensitive cells on the back wall of your eyeball. This is protected by a pigment known as 'the macular pigment' which absorbs light, acting as a sunscreen, preventing damage to the retina. Carotenoids such as Lutein, Zeaxanthin and Meso-Zeaxanthin are all found in Marigold extract and are key components of this protective pigment.
These carotenoids play an important role in maintaining good vision and protecting your eyes. This includes AMD (age-related macular degeneration) and environmental stresses including harmful blue light (the light emitted from artificial lighting and electronic devices like smartphones and computer screens). The macular pigment absorbs this light, protecting your eyes. You may also enjoy reading ‘Tips for better eye health’.
Carotenoids, including those found in Marigolds, are also powerful antioxidants. This means that they ‘scavenge’ and neutralise harmful ‘free radicals’.
