Floraglo Aztec Marigold Flower Powder
Also known as: Aztec marigold, Mexican marigold, African marigold, Floraglo® Aztec Marigold Flower Powder, Lutein, Tagetes erecta
Overview
Floraglo® Aztec Marigold Flower Powder is a standardized extract derived from the petals of Tagetes erecta, commonly known as the Aztec marigold. This ingredient is primarily valued for its high concentration of lutein, a carotenoid pigment crucial for human eye health. Lutein accumulates in the macula of the eye, where it acts as a natural filter for harmful blue light and functions as a potent antioxidant, protecting retinal cells from oxidative damage. The primary application of Floraglo lutein is to support visual health, particularly in the prevention and management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the improvement of macular pigment optical density (MPOD). It is also being explored for potential cognitive benefits and skin protection due to its systemic antioxidant properties. The efficacy and safety of Floraglo lutein are well-supported by extensive research, including over 70 published human clinical studies and large-scale randomized controlled trials like the NIH AREDS2 study, indicating a high level of evidence quality.
Benefits
Floraglo lutein offers significant, evidence-based benefits, primarily for eye health. Supplementation with doses of 6 mg/day or more has been shown to significantly increase serum lutein levels and macular pigment density, which is strongly correlated with a reduced risk and slower progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and improved visual performance, including contrast sensitivity and glare recovery, especially in older adults. The NIH AREDS2 study, a large randomized controlled trial, confirmed that the addition of lutein and zeaxanthin (including Floraglo lutein) reduced the risk of AMD progression. While less extensively documented, some research suggests lutein may also support cognitive function. Furthermore, in vitro studies and animal models indicate that Aztec marigold extracts possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting broader health benefits. Notably, studies have shown benefits across age groups, with adolescents exposed to digital screens exhibiting increased macular pigment density with 5 mg/day supplementation. Increases in MPOD of approximately 14% in adolescents and significant serum lutein elevation in adults after just 15 days of supplementation highlight its rapid impact. While serum lutein levels plateau relatively quickly, improvements in MPOD and visual function can continue with longer-term supplementation.
How it works
Lutein, the primary active compound in Floraglo Aztec Marigold Flower Powder, exerts its beneficial effects through several key mechanisms. In the eye, it acts as a natural blue light filter, absorbing high-energy blue light and protecting the delicate retinal cells from photo-oxidative damage. Concurrently, lutein functions as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing reactive oxygen species and reducing oxidative stress within ocular tissues, which is a major contributor to age-related eye conditions. Once ingested, lutein is absorbed and preferentially accumulates in the macula of the retina and in the brain, where it influences visual and potentially cognitive pathways. Floraglo lutein is available in both free and esterified forms, both of which are bioavailable, with proprietary processing enhancing its absorption. Clinical pharmacokinetic studies confirm significant increases in serum lutein levels following oral intake, demonstrating its effective delivery to target tissues.
Side effects
Floraglo lutein is generally considered safe, with a strong safety profile established through numerous clinical trials involving thousands of participants. No significant adverse effects have been consistently reported. When side effects do occur, they are typically rare, mild, and transient, most commonly involving minor gastrointestinal discomfort. There are no documented significant drug interactions with Floraglo lutein. While contraindications are minimal, individuals with known allergies to marigold or other plants in the Asteraceae family should exercise caution. Safety data for Floraglo lutein during pregnancy and lactation are not extensively studied, but it is generally presumed safe at dietary intake levels. No established upper limit for lutein intake has been set, and doses up to 20 mg/day have been used in studies without safety concerns. Long-term use in clinical trials has also demonstrated a favorable safety profile.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for Floraglo lutein varies depending on the desired outcome, but a minimum effective dose of approximately 6 mg/day is generally recognized to achieve significant increases in serum lutein levels and improvements in macular pigment optical density (MPOD). Many clinical studies, particularly those focusing on eye health and AMD prevention, commonly utilize an optimal dose of 10 mg/day. Doses up to 20 mg/day have been studied and found to be safe, though higher doses have not consistently demonstrated additional benefits. There is no established maximum safe dose, as doses above 20 mg/day are rarely used and have not shown superior efficacy. Floraglo lutein should be taken daily, preferably with a meal containing dietary fat, as fat enhances its absorption. It is available in both free lutein and lutein ester forms, both of which are effective. For comprehensive eye health support, Floraglo lutein is often co-administered with zeaxanthin and other antioxidants like vitamins C, E, and zinc, particularly in formulations targeting AMD.
FAQs
Is Floraglo lutein effective for AMD?
Yes, large randomized controlled trials like AREDS2 have shown that Floraglo lutein, especially when combined with zeaxanthin, can help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
How long before effects appear?
Serum lutein levels can increase within 2 weeks of supplementation. However, noticeable improvements in visual functions and macular pigment density may take 2 months or longer to manifest.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Yes, extensive clinical trials, including those with long-term follow-up, have consistently demonstrated that Floraglo lutein is safe for prolonged use without significant adverse effects.
Can children take it?
Studies have shown benefits in adolescents, such as increased macular pigment density. Dosing for children should be age-appropriate and ideally guided by a healthcare professional.
Does it improve vision in healthy people?
While it may enhance visual performance and provide protective benefits against future damage, Floraglo lutein does not correct existing refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18814202/ – This animal study investigated the antioxidant and analgesic effects of Tagetes erecta (Aztec marigold) extract. It found that the extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity and dose-dependent analgesic effects in mice, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory properties. The study provides foundational evidence for some of the broader health benefits of marigold extracts beyond just eye health.
- https://supplementsinreview.com/brand/floraglo/ – This source provides an overview of the Floraglo brand and its lutein product. It highlights the ingredient's role in eye health, its standardization, and mentions its use in significant clinical trials like AREDS2. It serves as a general informational resource on the product's market positioning and claims.
- https://info.kemin.com/hubfs/KH/FloraGLO_Whitepaper.pdf – This whitepaper details the scientific evidence supporting FloraGLO Lutein, including its bioavailability, safety, and efficacy in human clinical studies. It emphasizes its role in increasing macular pigment optical density and improving visual function, providing a comprehensive summary of the research conducted on this specific lutein source.
- https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/kemin-presents-new-clinical-study-on-floraglo-lutein – This article reports on a new clinical study presented by Kemin, the manufacturer of FloraGLO Lutein. The study focused on adolescents and found that 5 mg of FloraGLO lutein significantly increased macular pigment density, suggesting benefits for younger populations exposed to digital screens. It highlights ongoing research into broader applications of the ingredient.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11123982/ – This randomized cross-over human study investigated the effects of 6 mg lutein from marigold on healthy adults. It found that supplementation for 15 days significantly increased serum lutein levels and improved visual contrast thresholds, demonstrating the bioavailability and rapid impact of lutein on visual function even in a healthy population.