Vegetable · Other

Lycopene from Tomatoes

Provisional Moderate Scoresupplement

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 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

Lycopene is the primary carotenoid pigment found in tomatoes, functioning as a powerful natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Its primary mechanism involves quenching singlet oxygen and trapping reactive oxygen species, contributing to cellular protection and chemopreventive effects.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryVegetable

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordlycopene from tomatoes benefits

Lycopene from Tomatoes close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in anticoagulant, antioxidant, cholesterol

Lycopene from Tomatoes — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Neutralizes free radicals, providing robust antioxidant protection and safeguarding cellular integrity.

Improves cholesterol levels and reduces arterial stiffness, supporting comprehensive cardiovascular function.

Shields the skin from UV-induced damage and promotes elasticity, contributing to dermal health.

Exhibits chemopreventive properties by reducing the risk of prostate and other specific cancers.

Protects retinal tissues from oxidative stress, thereby supporting visual health.

Reduces systemic inflammation, benefiting joint and overall physiological well-being.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Lycopene is a powerful carotenoid antioxidant found in high concentrations in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), which are native to western South America. This vibrant red pigment is crucial for reducing oxidative stress, supporting cardiovascular health, and promoting skin protection. Its significant health-promoting properties make it a cornerstone of functional nutrition and Mediterranean diets.

“While Lycopene is a modern biochemical discovery, its source, the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), has been a dietary staple for Indigenous peoples of the Andes for millennia. Introduced to Europe in the 16th century, tomatoes became a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, valued for their culinary versatility and vibrant color, long before their specific health benefits from lycopene were scientifically understood.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Extensive scientific research, including numerous epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials, supports lycopene's role in cardiovascular health and skin photoprotection. Evidence also suggests chemopreventive properties, particularly for prostate cancer, and its potent antioxidant capacity is well-documented. Further research continues to explore its full therapeutic potential.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

- Carotenoid: Lycopene (a tetraterpene) - Antioxidant Action: Provides strong free radical neutralization, supporting cellular health. - Cardioprotective: Reduces LDL cholesterol and supports vascular health. - Photoprotective: Promotes skin repair and protects against UV-induced damage. - Phytochemicals: Contributes to anti-inflammatory effects.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Lycopene primarily acts by effectively quenching singlet oxygen and trapping reactive oxygen species (ROS) to mitigate oxidative stress and protect biomolecules. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by blocking pathways such as NF-κB translocation and p38 MAPK phosphorylation. Furthermore, lycopene can inhibit cell cycle progression and cancerous cell growth in a dose-dependent manner.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Extensive scientific research, including numerous epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials, supports lycopene's multifaceted health benefits. Studies demonstrate its role in improving cardiovascular health by reducing arterial stiffness and improving cholesterol levels, as well as providing skin photoprotection against UV-induced damage. Furthermore, strong evidence suggests chemopreventive properties, particularly for prostate cancer, along with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities.

Also Known As

Solanum lycopersicumCarotenoid Redpsi,psi-carotene

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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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