Calendula Officinalis Extract Lutein Ester is a specialized extract from the flowers of Calendula officinalis (commonly known as marigold) that is rich in Lutein esters. Lutein esters are the bioavailable form of lutein, a carotenoid with potent Antioxidant properties. Calendula officinalis has been traditionally used for its medicinal and skincare benefits, while lutein esters are especially valued for their effects on eye health and skin protection.Calendula Officinalis Extract Lutein Ester is a highly beneficial extract derived from calendula flowers, rich in lutein esters, zeaxanthin, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. It provides powerful antioxidant protection, promotes eye health, supports skin hydration and elasticity, and possesses anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. The extract is commonly used in eye health supplements, anti-aging skincare, sunscreens, and soothing creams for irritated skin. Its versatility in cosmetic, skincare, and oral health products, combined with its benefits for vision and skin protection, makes it a popular choice in both health and beauty industries.
Active Substances
1. Lutein Esters:
Lutein esters are a type of carotenoid found in high concentrations in calendula flowers. They are fat-soluble antioxidants that, when ingested, are converted into free lutein, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. Lutein is also known to protect the skin from oxidative stress and UV damage, promoting skin health and reducing the signs of aging.
2. Zeaxanthin:
Zeaxanthin is another carotenoid often present alongside lutein in calendula extract. It works synergistically with lutein to protect the eyes from harmful blue light and oxidative stress.
Zeaxanthin also has protective benefits for the skin, particularly in shielding it from environmental damage.
3. Triterpenoids (Faradiol Esters):
Triterpenoids are known for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. They contribute to the extract’s use in skincare, where they help calm irritated skin, promote healing, and reduce inflammation.
4. Flavonoids (Quercetin, Isorhamnetin):
These antioxidants help protect the skin and body from oxidative damage and have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Flavonoids also enhance blood circulation and improve skin tone.
5. Saponins:
Saponins found in calendula have cleansing and moisturizing properties, making them useful in skincare applications, especially in products designed for sensitive or dry skin.
Specific Effects
1. Eye Health:
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are well-known for their role in supporting vision and eye health. They are the primary Carotenoids present in the macula of the eye, where they help filter harmful blue light and protect the eyes from oxidative damage. Regular intake of lutein esters may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Lutein also helps maintain overall eye function, especially in individuals exposed to long periods of screen time or blue light.
2. Antioxidant Protection:
Lutein esters and other carotenoids in calendula extract act as powerful antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative damage. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, slow down the aging process, and maintain overall health. The antioxidants in the extract also protect the skin from environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution, helping to prevent premature aging and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Healing Properties:
The triterpenoids in calendula have strong anti-inflammatory effects. They are commonly used in topical treatments to reduce skin inflammation, heal wounds, and alleviate irritation from burns, rashes, or other skin issues. Calendula extract is frequently used in ointments or creams for cuts, bruises, and other minor injuries due to its healing and soothing properties.
4. Skin Protection and Repair:
Lutein is known for its ability to protect the skin from UV-induced oxidative damage. It helps in maintaining skin hydration, elasticity, and reducing signs of photoaging like wrinkles and pigmentation. The moisturizing and soothing properties of saponins, combined with the anti-inflammatory action of triterpenoids, make calendula extract beneficial for treating dry, sensitive, or inflamed skin. It can also promote faster wound healing and regeneration of skin cells.
5. Supports Cognitive Function:
Although not as commonly highlighted, the antioxidant properties of lutein and zeaxanthin may have neuroprotective benefits. They are thought to help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which may contribute to improved cognitive function and potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative conditions.
6. Immune Support:
The flavonoids and saponins in calendula contribute to immune system support. They have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help the body resist infections and promote overall immune health.
Applications
1. Eye Health Supplements:
Lutein esters from calendula extract are widely used in eye health supplements designed to support vision, reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, and protect against blue light exposure. These supplements are often marketed for people who spend long hours in front of digital screens or are concerned about eye aging.
2. Skincare and Cosmetic Products:
Calendula extract is a common ingredient in natural skincare products such as creams, lotions, and serums. Its combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and skin-soothing properties makes it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin.
Anti-Aging Skincare: Lutein esters protect the skin from oxidative stress and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging caused by sun exposure.
Moisturizers: The extract’s ability to enhance hydration and improve skin elasticity makes it a popular addition to moisturizing creams and lotions.
Healing Balms and Ointments: Calendula extract is used in products formulated to treat wounds, burns, rashes, and other skin irritations due to its regenerative properties.
3. Cosmetics with UV Protection:
Due to lutein’s role in protecting the skin from UV damage, calendula extract is often added to sunscreens and other cosmetic products to enhance their photoprotective effects. These products are designed to prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and protect against premature aging caused by sun exposure.
4. Wound Healing and Soothing Creams:
Calendula extract is widely used in natural first-aid ointments and creams for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often recommended for treating cuts, scrapes, burns, and insect bites. The soothing effects of the extract make it a popular choice for calming skin inflammation, including conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
5. Oral Health Products:
The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of calendula extract make it a useful ingredient in natural mouthwashes and toothpaste. It helps reduce inflammation in the gums, fights bacteria that cause bad breath, and supports oral health.
6. Food and Beverage Supplements:
Lutein esters from calendula are also incorporated into functional foods and beverages aimed at improving eye health. These may include drinks, powders, or gummies formulated for individuals seeking to protect their vision or enhance skin health.
7. Natural Colorant:
The vibrant yellow-orange color of lutein esters makes calendula extract useful as a natural colorant in food and beverages, cosmetics, and personal care products.
