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Aztec Marigold Extract

Also known as: Aztec Marigold, Mexican Marigold, Tagetes erecta

Overview

Aztec Marigold extract, derived primarily from the petals of Tagetes erecta, is a botanical supplement rich in carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds are crucial for maintaining eye health and exhibit potent antioxidant properties. The extract is also being investigated for a broader range of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound healing, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and potential anticancer activities. While research on the whole extract is still emerging, with a mix of in vitro, animal, and some human studies, the benefits of its primary active components, lutein and zeaxanthin, are well-supported by systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Benefits

Aztec Marigold extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich carotenoid content. It demonstrates significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, with in vitro studies showing up to 85% antioxidant and 80% anti-inflammatory inhibition at low concentrations, suggesting its role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation. For eye health, meta-analyses confirm that lutein and zeaxanthin, often sourced from marigold, are effective in improving macular pigment optical density and may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Preclinical animal studies indicate neuroprotective effects in models of Alzheimer’s disease and hepatoprotective effects against drug-induced liver injury. Furthermore, in vitro research has shown selective cytotoxicity against melanoma and other cancer cell lines, suggesting potential anticancer properties, though human clinical evidence is lacking. Some animal studies also point to anxiolytic effects, possibly mediated via GABAergic pathways.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Aztec Marigold extract are primarily attributed to its high concentration of carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds act as potent antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is a key contributor to various diseases. Their anti-inflammatory effects likely involve modulating inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes. In the eyes, lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the macula, forming macular pigment that filters harmful blue light and protects photoreceptor cells. Neuroprotective and hepatoprotective effects are thought to stem from their antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. The observed cytotoxic effects on cancer cells may involve inducing apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle. The bioavailability of lutein and zeaxanthin from marigold extract is well-documented, with absorption enhanced when consumed with dietary fats.

Side effects

Aztec Marigold extract is generally considered safe, especially when standardized for lutein and zeaxanthin, with no major adverse effects reported in clinical studies of these carotenoids. Preclinical in vitro and animal studies have also shown no significant toxicity at typical doses. However, rare allergic reactions to marigold components are possible, although not well-documented in human clinical trials. While no major drug interactions have been widely reported, caution is advised if taking anticoagulant medications, as some carotenoids may exhibit mild blood-thinning effects. Overall, the safety profile appears favorable, but individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies) should exercise caution.

Dosage

For eye health benefits, the effective daily dosage of lutein and zeaxanthin, often derived from Aztec Marigold extract, typically ranges from 10 mg of lutein combined with 2 mg of zeaxanthin. Since Aztec Marigold extracts are standardized to their carotenoid content, the specific amount of extract needed will vary depending on its concentration. Absorption of these carotenoids is significantly improved when consumed with dietary fats. While there is no officially established maximum safe dose, typical supplementation for eye health does not usually exceed 20 mg of lutein per day. It is important to follow product-specific instructions and consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations, especially for specific health conditions.

FAQs

Is Aztec Marigold extract safe for long-term use?

Yes, especially when standardized for lutein/zeaxanthin, no significant safety concerns have been reported for long-term use.

Does it improve vision?

Supplementation improves macular pigment density and may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, but it does not typically 'improve' existing vision.

How quickly do benefits appear?

Improvements in macular pigment density, a key benefit for eye health, typically become noticeable over several months of consistent supplementation.

Is it effective for cancer?

Evidence for anticancer effects is currently preliminary and primarily from in vitro studies; clinical efficacy in humans is unproven and requires further research.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10492899/ – This in vitro study demonstrated that marigold extract possesses significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It showed up to 85% antioxidant and 80% anti-inflammatory inhibition at low concentrations, suggesting its potential therapeutic applications in conditions involving oxidative stress and inflammation.
https://www.wisdomlib.org/uploads/journals/wjpr/volume-9,-august-issue-8_15064.pdf – This meta-analysis focused on lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation, often sourced from marigold, and found that it significantly improves macular pigment optical density. The review also indicated a reduction in the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), establishing a dose-response relationship for these carotenoids.
https://ijhmp.com/Uploads/c862fd23-3e3c-4a0a-b62c-ba4d8db4bf0a.pdf – This narrative review compiled preclinical data, primarily from animal models and cell lines, demonstrating various therapeutic effects of marigold extract. It highlighted neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anxiolytic, and anticancer properties, emphasizing the need for further human clinical trials to confirm these findings.
https://www.science.gov/topicpages/a/aztec+marigold+tagetes.html – This source references research, including an in vitro study by MatiÄ et al. (2013), which investigated the cytotoxic effects of marigold tea. The study found that marigold tea exhibited selective cytotoxicity against melanoma cells while showing minimal adverse effects on healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells, suggesting potential as an anticancer agent.