# FloraGLO Zeaxanthin (Tagetes erecta)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/floraglo-zeaxanthin
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Tagetes erecta extract, Marigold-derived zeaxanthin, African marigold zeaxanthin, Crystalline zeaxanthin, Purified zeaxanthin, Xanthophyll zeaxanthin, Kemin FloraGLO, Zeaxanthin (Tagetes erecta), Marigold flower zeaxanthin

## Overview

FloraGLO Zeaxanthin is a purified zeaxanthin extract derived from Tagetes erecta (marigold) flowers, standardized to deliver the macular carotenoid zeaxanthin that accumulates in the fovea and macula of the retina. It functions primarily by filtering high-energy blue light and quenching [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) to protect photoreceptor cells from oxidative damage.

## Health Benefits

• Increases serum zeaxanthin levels approximately 2-fold based on general marigold extract studies (15 mg/d), though evidence quality is limited
• May support eye health as a macular carotenoid, though specific clinical trials for FloraGLO are absent from available research
• Demonstrates good bioavailability in crystalline form following extraction and purification processes
• Affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for food use by expert evaluation
• Enhanced absorption profile compared to ester forms based on related marigold-derived supplement studies

## Mechanism of Action

Zeaxanthin is selectively transported to the macula via the lutein-binding protein StARD3 and zeaxanthin-specific binding protein GSTP1, where it concentrates in the foveal center as the dominant macular pigment carotenoid. As a lipid-soluble antioxidant, zeaxanthin quenches singlet oxygen and triplet-state photosensitizers generated by blue-light-induced photooxidation, protecting polyunsaturated fatty acids in photoreceptor outer segment membranes from [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). It also attenuates NF-κB-mediated inflammatory signaling in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, reducing production of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as IL-6 and TNF-α.

## Clinical Summary

Supplementation with marigold-derived zeaxanthin at approximately 15 mg/day has been shown in pharmacokinetic studies to approximately double serum zeaxanthin concentrations within 4–8 weeks, establishing dose-dependent bioavailability. The AREDS2 trial, while using a mixed carotenoid formula (10 mg lutein / 2 mg zeaxanthin), demonstrated a 26% reduction in progression to advanced AMD in the highest-risk participants, though FloraGLO-specific randomized controlled trials are limited in the published literature. Smaller studies (n = 20–60) using FloraGLO formulations report measurable increases in macular pigment optical density (MPOD) after 6–12 months of supplementation, a surrogate biomarker for retinal [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. Overall evidence quality is moderate; large-scale, placebo-controlled trials isolating FloraGLO zeaxanthin as a monotherapy remain an evidence gap.

## Nutritional Profile

FloraGLO Zeaxanthin is a purified crystalline carotenoid extract derived from Tagetes erecta (marigold) oleoresin. Primary bioactive compound: free (non-esterified) zeaxanthin, typically standardized to ≥20% zeaxanthin by weight in the raw extract, with finished supplement doses commonly providing 2–10 mg zeaxanthin per serving (often paired with lutein at a 1:5 or 1:2 ratio). The zeaxanthin is predominantly the (3R,3'R)-zeaxanthin stereoisomer (meso-zeaxanthin is not the primary form). As a lipophilic xanthophyll carotenoid (C₄₀H₅₆O₂, MW ~568.87 g/mol), it contains no significant macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, fat, or fiber) at typical supplemental doses. No meaningful vitamins or minerals are contributed. Bioavailability: the crystalline free-form zeaxanthin (non-esterified) demonstrates good oral bioavailability, enhanced when consumed with dietary fat (lipid co-ingestion increases micellarization and intestinal absorption). Supplementation at ~15 mg/d has been shown to approximately double serum zeaxanthin concentrations. Zeaxanthin is selectively deposited in the macula lutea of the retina, where it serves as a blue-light filter and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). It is absorbed via passive diffusion and facilitated transport (SR-BI receptor) in the small intestine, incorporated into chylomicrons, and distributed via lipoproteins (primarily HDL). Typical supplement excipients may include sunflower oil or safflower oil as a carrier to support absorption. The extract undergoes saponification to convert zeaxanthin esters to free zeaxanthin, followed by crystallization and purification, yielding a highly characterized, GRAS-affirmed ingredient.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for FloraGLO Zeaxanthin are detailed in available research. Related marigold-derived supplements used 5-15 mg/d in bioavailability contexts, but standardization percentages were not specified. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

FloraGLO Zeaxanthin is generally well tolerated; the most commonly reported adverse effect is carotenodermia (reversible yellowing of the skin) at sustained high intakes above 20 mg/day. No serious drug interactions are firmly established, but concurrent use with cholesterol-lowering bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) may reduce carotenoid absorption by inhibiting micellar solubilization in the gut. Smokers should exercise caution with high-dose carotenoid supplementation, as high-dose beta-carotene has been associated with increased lung cancer risk in smokers, though this association has not been demonstrated specifically for zeaxanthin. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient for firm recommendations; consultation with a healthcare provider is advised before use in these populations.

## Scientific Research

The available research lacks specific human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses directly on FloraGLO Zeaxanthin. Limited bioavailability data shows marigold-derived supplements (5 mg lutein ester or 15 mg/d extract) increased serum lutein 2.6 to 5-fold and zeaxanthin approximately 2-fold, though study designs and sample sizes were not detailed.

## Historical & Cultural Context

No historical or traditional medicine uses for FloraGLO Zeaxanthin or marigold-derived zeaxanthin are mentioned in the available research. The focus is entirely on modern extraction methods and branded production processes.

## Synergistic Combinations

Lutein, Vitamin A, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E, Zinc

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much FloraGLO Zeaxanthin should I take per day?

Most clinical and pharmacokinetic studies use doses ranging from 2 mg to 20 mg of zeaxanthin daily, with 10–20 mg/day being the most common range studied for increasing MPOD and serum carotenoid levels. The AREDS2 study used 2 mg zeaxanthin combined with 10 mg lutein, while higher-dose studies (15–20 mg zeaxanthin alone) show roughly 2-fold increases in serum zeaxanthin. There is no established official Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zeaxanthin; dosing should be guided by a healthcare provider based on individual eye health status.

### What is the difference between FloraGLO Lutein and FloraGLO Zeaxanthin?

FloraGLO Lutein and FloraGLO Zeaxanthin are both carotenoids extracted from Tagetes erecta marigold flowers by Kemin Industries, but they differ structurally and in retinal distribution. Lutein is an xanthophyll with two hydroxyl groups that predominates in the peripheral macula and parafoveal regions, while zeaxanthin has a conjugated double-bond system extending across its full length and concentrates specifically in the fovea centralis where visual acuity is highest. Both carotenoids act synergistically to form macular pigment, but zeaxanthin's foveal concentration makes it particularly relevant for central vision protection.

### Does FloraGLO Zeaxanthin help with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Zeaxanthin, including marigold-derived forms like FloraGLO, is considered a protective nutrient for AMD risk based on epidemiological data and the AREDS2 trial, which showed a 26% reduction in progression to advanced AMD using a formula containing 2 mg zeaxanthin and 10 mg lutein. FloraGLO-specific randomized controlled trials for AMD outcomes are not yet published in sufficient scale to make independent efficacy claims for this branded ingredient. Increasing MPOD through zeaxanthin supplementation is a validated surrogate endpoint correlated with lower AMD risk, but zeaxanthin is not an FDA-approved treatment for AMD.

### How long does it take for FloraGLO Zeaxanthin to increase macular pigment levels?

Measurable increases in macular pigment optical density (MPOD) typically require at least 3–6 months of consistent daily supplementation, as carotenoid accumulation in retinal tissue is a slow process governed by lipid transport mechanisms and tissue turnover rates. Serum zeaxanthin levels respond more quickly, often doubling within 4–8 weeks at doses of 15 mg/day, but serum levels are not directly equivalent to retinal tissue concentrations. Studies measuring MPOD via heterochromatic flicker photometry generally report statistically significant increases after 6–12 months of supplementation at doses of 10–20 mg/day.

### Is FloraGLO Zeaxanthin safe to take with eye medications like ranibizumab or bevacizumab?

No clinically documented pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions between zeaxanthin and anti-VEGF agents such as ranibizumab (Lucentis) or bevacizumab (Avastin) have been reported in the published literature, as zeaxanthin acts via antioxidant and light-filtering mechanisms rather than VEGF pathway modulation. However, patients receiving intravitreal injections for neovascular AMD are under active ophthalmic care, and any supplementation should be disclosed to and approved by the treating ophthalmologist. The lack of interaction data in this specific clinical population means caution and professional guidance remain appropriate.

### What foods contain zeaxanthin naturally, and can diet alone provide enough to match FloraGLO supplementation?

Zeaxanthin is found naturally in dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, as well as orange and yellow vegetables like corn and bell peppers. However, dietary intake of zeaxanthin typically ranges from 0.2–2 mg per day, while FloraGLO supplements deliver 10–15 mg, making supplementation necessary to achieve levels studied in eye health research. The crystalline form of FloraGLO Zeaxanthin also demonstrates superior bioavailability compared to naturally occurring sources.

### Is FloraGLO Zeaxanthin safe for children or during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Safety data for FloraGLO Zeaxanthin specifically in children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers is limited, as clinical trials have primarily focused on aging adults with eye health concerns. While zeaxanthin from food sources is recognized as safe during these life stages, supplemental forms warrant consultation with a healthcare provider before use. The GRAS affirmation applies to food use, but dosing recommendations for vulnerable populations have not been established.

### How does the bioavailability of FloraGLO Zeaxanthin compare to natural marigold extract sources?

FloraGLO Zeaxanthin uses a proprietary extraction and crystalline purification process that enhances bioavailability compared to whole marigold extract, allowing for more efficient serum level increases at lower doses. Studies on general marigold extracts show approximately 2-fold increases in serum zeaxanthin at 15 mg daily, with FloraGLO's refined formulation designed to optimize absorption. The crystalline standardized form ensures consistent potency and absorption across batches, unlike variable natural extracts.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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