Extract & Compound · Compound

Fucoxanthin

Provisional Moderate Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Fucoxanthin is a marine carotenoid found in brown seaweeds that activates UCP1 protein in adipose tissue to increase thermogenesis and fat oxidation. This compound demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects by reducing C-reactive protein levels and other inflammatory markers.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordfucoxanthin benefits

Fucoxanthin close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory

Fucoxanthin — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Fucoxanthin enhances fat oxidation, aiding in weight management by increasing metabolic rate. It activates the UCP1 protein, boosting energy expenditure. - It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reducing markers like CRP by up to 30%, which helps in chronic disease prevention. - Fucoxanthin supports liver health by decreasing fat accumulation, thus improving liver function. - It promotes cardiovascular health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels, reducing heart disease risk. - Fucoxanthin aids in blood sugar regulation, enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing type 2 diabetes risk. - It boosts skin health by protecting against UV-induced damage, enhancing skin elasticity. - Fucoxanthin supports immune function by modulating cytokine production, strengthening the body's defense mechanisms.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Fucoxanthin is a carotenoid found in brown seaweeds such as wakame and hijiki. It is extracted through solvent extraction processes, often involving ethanol or acetone.

“Traditionally consumed in East Asian diets, particularly in Japan, where seaweeds are a staple food.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

In vitro and animal studies highlight its potential in weight management and metabolic health. Human trials are limited but promising.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in carotenoids, particularly fucoxanthin. - Contains trace minerals and vitamins from seaweed sources. - Provides antioxidant activity.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Fucoxanthin activates uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in white and brown adipose tissue, increasing thermogenesis and energy expenditure through mitochondrial uncoupling. It modulates the NF-κB pathway to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6. The compound also enhances AMPK activation, promoting fatty acid oxidation and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies using 2.4-8mg daily doses of fucoxanthin show modest weight loss of 1-3kg over 8-16 weeks in overweight adults. A randomized controlled trial with 151 participants demonstrated 30% reduction in C-reactive protein levels after 16 weeks of supplementation. Most studies are small-scale with 30-150 participants, and longer-term safety data beyond 16 weeks is limited. Evidence suggests benefits are dose-dependent but magnitude of effects remains moderate.

Also Known As

(3S,3'S)-FucoxanthinFucoxantholBrown algae carotenoidWakame extract海藻キサントフィルHazel carotenoid3'-Acetoxy-5,6-epoxy-3,3'-dihydroxy-6',7'-didehydro-5,6,7,8,5',6'-hexahydro-β,β-caroten-8-one

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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