Antioxidant
Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract
Also known as: Zeaxanthin, Tagetes erecta extract, Marigold zeaxanthin, Xanthophyll
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant naturally found in marigold flowers, primarily studied for its potential role in supporting eye health and macular pigment density. Evidence supports its use alongside lutein for maintaining vision, particularly in protecting the macula from age-related damage.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Encapsulations Lutein/Zeaxanthin | 93 A | $0.57 |
| 2 | Jarrow Formulas Lutein | 92 A | $0.32 |
| 3 | BulkSupplements Zeaxanthin 5% Powder | 92 A | $0.02 |
| 4 | Swanson Ultimate Ocular Antioxidant - Featuring Lutemax 2020 | 91 A | $0.51 |
| 5 | Pure Encapsulations EyeProtect Basics without zinc | 90 A | $1.00 |
| 6 | Sports Research Lutein + Zeaxanthin Softgels, Plant-Based | 90 A | $0.20 |
| 7 | Thorne Memoractiv™ | 89 A | $2.33 |
| 8 | Pure Encapsulations EyeProtect Basics | 89 A | $1.05 |
| 9 | Natural Factors Lutein 40 mg | 89 A | $0.55 |
| 10 | Natural Factors Lutein 20 mg | 89 A | $0.36 |
| 11 | Thorne Advanced Nutrients | 88 A | $2.40 |
| 12 | Physician's Choice Eye Health Supplement | 87 A | $0.80 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract should I take?
The typical range is 6-20 mg daily. Long-term use (weeks to months) may be needed to build macular pigment
When should I take Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract?
With meals for optimal absorption. Recommended—fat-soluble carotenoid requiring dietary fat for absorption.
Which form of Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract is best?
Powder (5% standardization typical). Other forms in the catalog: Capsule, Tablet.
Is Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well-tolerated, Carotenemia (harmless yellowing of skin) at very high doses.
Which Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract supplement scores highest?
Pure Encapsulations Lutein/Zeaxanthin, at 93/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Eye health and vision support
- Macular pigment density
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) risk reduction
- Antioxidant protection
How it works
- Accumulates in the macula and protects against blue light and oxidative stress
- Acts as a carotenoid antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals
- Supports macular pigment optical density for visual filtering
Dosage
- Typical range
- 6-20 mg daily
- Timing
- With meals for optimal absorption
- With food
- Recommended—fat-soluble carotenoid requiring dietary fat for absorption
- Duration
- Long-term use (weeks to months) may be needed to build macular pigment
- Special populations
- Often combined with lutein in 1:2 to 1:1 ratios for synergistic eye protection
Forms
- Powder (5% standardization typical)· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Carotenemia (harmless yellowing of skin) at very high doses
Contraindications
- No major contraindications documented
- Caution in smokers—some data suggest high carotenoid intake may increase lung cancer risk in this population
Products containing Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Zeaxanthin from Marigold Flower Extract on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Good evidence exists for zeaxanthin's role in eye health, particularly from the AREDS2 trial and observational studies showing association between dietary zeaxanthin intake and reduced AMD risk. Evidence is solid but less extensive than for lutein. Most benefits are observed when combined with lutein and other nutrients.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.