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What Is Marigold Extract?
Marigold extract is a natural plant extract derived from Tagetes erecta (African marigold) or Calendula officinalis (pot marigold), widely used for its rich content of lutein and zeaxanthin, which supports eye health and provides antioxidant benefits. Since it is a complex botanical extract containing various carotenoids and flavonoids.
In its powdered form, it appears as a yellow to orange fine powder with a mild floral aroma and slightly oily texture due to its carotenoid content. It is partially soluble in water but highly soluble in fats and organic solvents like ethanol, making it suitable for oil-based formulations. It is frequently used in nutritional supplements, cosmetics, and functional foods to promote skin and visual health because of its strong antioxidant qualities.
Common Sources
The botanical source of Marigold Extract is Tagetes erecta, commonly known as marigold, a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America, marigold is an annual herb known for its vibrant golden-yellow to orange blooms. Today, it is cultivated worldwide, particularly in regions like China, India, Africa, and South America, where it’s used not only for ornamental purposes but also in traditional medicine and natural dyes.
Historically, marigold held cultural and medicinal significance in ancient Mesoamerican civilizations such as the Mayans and Aztecs. It was often used in rituals, as a natural dye, and as a remedy for various ailments. After being introduced to Europe and Asia by Spanish colonizers, the plant gained popularity and symbolic importance across many cultures, often representing vitality and the sun.
| NOTE: Nutri Avenue supplies premium Marigold Extract, a rich natural source of lutein and zeaxanthin, to nutraceutical and functional food manufacturers worldwide. We provide this potent botanical extract in bulk quantities (25kg, 50kg, 100kg+ options) with standardized active compounds, competitive pricing, and reliable global logistics – perfect for your eye health, skin protection, and antioxidant formulations. |
Active Ingredients in Marigold Flowers
Marigold Extract is best known for its rich content of lutein, a naturally occurring carotenoid that gives the marigold flower its vibrant orange-yellow hue. Lutein (CAS No. 127-40-2) has the molecular formula C₄₀H₅₆O₂ and a molecular weight of approximately 568.87 g/mol. It typically appears as an orange-red crystalline powder. As a fat-soluble compound, lutein is insoluble in water but dissolves well in oils and organic solvents like ethanol and hexane. It is highly sensitive to light and oxidation, so it must be stored properly to preserve its potency. In terms of health benefits, lutein is widely recognized for its ability to filter blue light and combat oxidative stress, making it essential for protecting the retina and maintaining macular health.
Another primary carotenoid in Marigold Extract is zeaxanthin (CAS No. 144-68-3), which shares the same molecular formula (C₄₀H₅₆O₂) and molecular weight (568.87 g/mol) as lutein due to their structural similarity—they are isomers. Zeaxanthin appears as a deep orange crystalline powder and is also insoluble in water but dissolves in lipids and certain organic solvents. Like lutein, zeaxanthin is sensitive to light and oxygen. This compound accumulates in the central retina (the fovea) and works synergistically with lutein to support visual acuity and protect the eyes from oxidative damage and high-energy light exposure.
Lutein esters, such as lutein dipalmitate (CAS No. 547-17-1), are also commonly found in marigold-derived products. These are esterified forms of lutein, with a molecular formula of C₇₂H₁₁₂O₄ and a molecular weight of about 1063.6 g/mol. They appear as yellow to orange fine powders and offer better oxidative stability compared to free lutein. Although not biologically active in esterified form, lutein esters are efficiently converted into free lutein during digestion. For this reason, lutein esters are often used in dietary supplements where improved shelf life and stability are desired.
In some Marigold Extracts, particularly those less refined or naturally processed, small amounts of beta-carotene (CAS No. 7235-40-7) may also be present. Beta-carotene has a molecular formula of C₄₀H₅₆ and a molecular weight of 536.87 g/mol. It appears as a dark red to orange crystalline powder and, like other carotenoids, is fat-soluble. Known as a precursor to vitamin A, beta-carotene supports immune health, vision, and skin function. However, its presence in marigold extract is generally minor and not the primary focus of standardization.
Together, these carotenoids make Marigold Extract a valuable natural source of eye-protective nutrients, often standardized for use in dietary supplements, eye health formulas, and functional foods.
What Does Marigold Extract Do?
Marigold extract operates through multiple biological pathways attributable to its rich content of carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, and flavonoids including quercetin and patuletin. When consumed, these bioactive compounds are absorbed in the small intestine, which enters the lymphatic system before reaching the systemic circulation. The carotenoids in this botanical extract demonstrate pronounced antioxidant capabilities, neutralizing reactive oxygen species and protecting cellular structures from oxidative damage. For those researching what is marigold extract at the molecular level, it’s worth noting that lutein and zeaxanthin selectively accumulate in ocular tissues, particularly the macula, where they filter harmful blue light and quench free radicals, protecting photoreceptor cells from photo-oxidative stress.
The flavonoid components in marigold extract powder exhibit complementary anti-inflammatory properties by modulating multiple pathways, including inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and suppressing NF-κB signaling. Additionally, certain triterpenoid compounds found in marigolds exhibit antimicrobial and wound-healing properties through enhanced epithelialization and collagen deposition. The synergistic interaction between these diverse bioactive compounds contributes to the extract’s comprehensive biological activity profile across various tissues and organ systems.
How to Extract Marigold Flowers?
- Initial Raw Material Processing: The production of marigold extract begins with carefully selecting and harvesting Calendula officinalis or Tagetes erecta flowers at peak bloom when bioactive compound levels are highest. These botanical materials undergo rigorous quality testing, including species verification, maturity assessment, and contaminant screening. Only flower heads meeting strict specifications for color development, petal integrity, and preliminary carotenoid content evaluation proceed to processing. For manufacturers concerned with marigold extract quality, this initial selection significantly influences the final product’s potency.
- Preparation and Drying: The crucial preparation phase involves cleaning and optimizing the flowers for extraction. High-quality extract requires careful flower drying under controlled temperature conditions, typically below 40°C, to preserve heat-sensitive carotenoids while reducing moisture content to optimal levels. These parameters significantly influence the extraction efficiency and stability of the final product. Some processors separate petals from other flower parts to increase the concentration of target compounds.
- Extraction Process: The development of potent marigold extract depends heavily on the extraction methodology. This step involves selecting appropriate solvents based on target compounds—typically hexane, ethanol, or supercritical CO2 for carotenoid-focused extracts or water-alcohol mixtures for flavonoid-rich preparations. The extraction parameters, including solvent ratio, temperature, duration, and agitation method, significantly influence yield and bioactive profile. Multiple extraction cycles with optimized conditions ensure maximum recovery from the plant material.
- Concentration and Purification: The crude extract undergoes careful concentration under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to remove extraction solvents while preserving thermolabile compounds. This critical phase is followed by multiple purification steps, which may include winterization (cold filtration), centrifugation, and membrane filtration to remove waxes, chlorophyll, and other unwanted components. The degree of purification depends on the intended application of the marigold extract powder.
- Standardization: The purified extract undergoes precise analysis to quantify key active compounds, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, for eye health applications or flavonoids for skin-focused products. The extract is then carefully standardized, often through blending or further concentration, to ensure consistent potency—typically ranging from 5% to 80% lutein content, depending on the intended use. This standardization ensures batch-to-batch consistency in biological activity, addressing concerns about marigold extract variability in natural products.
- Stabilization: The standardized extract undergoes a critical stabilization process to protect sensitive carotenoids from oxidation. This typically involves the addition of natural antioxidants such as mixed tocopherols, ascorbic acid, or rosemary extract. Some manufacturers employ microencapsulation techniques to further protect the bioactive compounds from degradation factors, including light, oxygen, and heat, significantly extending shelf life and maintaining potency.
- Final Processing: The final stages involve converting the stabilized extract into powder form through spray-drying or drum-drying operations. This phase requires careful control of drying parameters to maintain carotenoid stability while achieving proper particle characteristics. The resulting marigold extract powder must have consistent flow properties and dissolution characteristics suitable for various applications, including dietary supplements, food colorants, and cosmetic ingredients.
- Quality Control: Quality assurance throughout production involves comprehensive testing at multiple stages. This includes HPLC analysis for carotenoid profile and content, spectrophotometric analysis for color intensity, and stability testing under various conditions. Additional testing monitors moisture content, heavy metal levels, microbial limits, and residual solvents. The finished product undergoes both accelerated and real-time stability testing to ensure it maintains its specified bioactive content throughout its intended shelf life.
Specification Sheet Reference
Property | Details |
Type | Plant extract |
Active Ingredients | Lutein, zeaxanthin, etc. |
Appearance | Fine yellow-orange powder |
Purity | 10%, 20%, etc. |
CAS Number | 84776-23-8 |
Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in oils |
Test Methods | HPLC, UV-Vis |
Certifications | ISO available. Please contact sales team for details. |
MOQs | 25 kg |
Sample | Available (10-20g/bag) |
OEM Service | Available |
ODM Service | Available |
Private Label | Available |
Contract Manufacturing | Available |
Marigold Extract: Benefits, Side Effects, and More
- Eye Health and Vision Support: Research published in Nutrients (2022) demonstrates that marigold extract significantly improves macular health and visual function. The study showed that regular supplementation with lutein-rich extracts enhanced contrast sensitivity and reduced glare sensitivity in participants with age-related macular changes. Researchers found that the carotenoids in this botanical extract accumulated in the macula lutea, forming macular pigment that filters harmful blue light and protects photoreceptor cells from oxidative damage. Improvements in visual processing speed became measurable after 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
- Wound Healing Acceleration: Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2022) demonstrated that marigold extract enhances wound healing through multiple complementary mechanisms. The study showed that topical application promoted faster wound closure increased epithelialization rates, and improved the structural organization of regenerating tissue. These effects appear linked to the extract’s ability to stimulate fibroblast proliferation, enhance collagen synthesis, and provide antimicrobial protection during healing.
- Digestive System Support: Clinical studies in BMC Complementary Medicine (2023) have established that marigold extract supports gastrointestinal health through protective and soothing mechanisms. The research showed that extract supplementation reduced markers of intestinal inflammation and improved mucosal integrity in participants with digestive sensitivity. What is Marigold extract’s benefit for digestive function appears linked to its combination of anti-inflammatory flavonoids, antimicrobial compounds, and mild astringent properties that collectively support intestinal comfort and function.
- Immune System Modulation: Recent research in Frontiers in Immunology (2022) revealed that marigold extract supports balanced immune function through multiple pathways. The study demonstrated that certain polysaccharide fractions in the extract enhanced natural killer cell activity while simultaneously modulating excessive inflammatory responses. These balanced immunomodulatory effects and the extract’s antioxidant properties suggest potential applications for supporting immune resilience during seasonal challenges.
Side Effects: Is Marigold Flower Extract Safe?
- Mild Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience sensitivity to marigold extract.
- Digestive Discomfort: High doses may cause mild stomach upset.
- Skin Irritation: Direct application may lead to irritation in sensitive individuals.
FDA Approval: Is Marigold Extract Legal?
- United States (FDA): Approved as a dietary supplement ingredient and food additive.
- European Union (EFSA): Recognized as a safe food coloring and supplement ingredient.
- Canada (Health Canada): Permitted for use in natural health products.
- Australia (TGA): Approved for use in complementary medicines.
What is Marigold Extract Used For?
Marigold flower extract is widely used across several industries, particularly in nutraceuticals, functional foods, cosmetics, and animal nutrition. Below is a detailed breakdown of its applications and the types of products it’s commonly found in:
1. Dietary Supplements. It is most commonly used in eye health supplements, thanks to its high content of lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids are known to support macular health, reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and filter harmful blue light.
Typical products:
- Vision support capsules or softgels
- Lutein + Zeaxanthin combo supplements
- Multivitamins with added carotenoids
2. Functional Foods & Beverages. The extract is also incorporated into functional food and beverage products as a natural source of antioxidants and eye-protective nutrients.
Typical products:
- Eye-health gummies
- Fortified drinks (e.g., vision-enhancing teas or juices)
- Nutritional bars or powders for visual wellness
3. Pet Supplements & Animal Feed. In animal nutrition, especially in poultry and aquaculture, the extract is used to enhance the color of egg yolks, chicken skin, and fish flesh due to its natural pigments.
Typical products:
- Lutein-enriched chicken feed
- Color-enhancing aquaculture feed (e.g., for salmon or shrimp)
- Pet supplements for eye and skin health
4. Cosmetics & Skincare. The antioxidant properties of lutein also make Marigold Extract a valuable ingredient in topical formulations for skin protection, especially against photoaging and oxidative stress.
Typical products:
- Anti-aging creams or serums
- Brightening and skin barrier protection products
- Sunscreen formulas with botanical antioxidants
5. Natural Colorants. Due to its intense orange-yellow pigments, this extract (especially lutein esters) is used as a natural coloring agent in food, beverages, and cosmetics.
Typical products:
- Yogurts, dairy products
- Snacks or baked goods
- Lipsticks and makeup
Dosage Recommendation for Marigold Extract Powder
The recommended dosage for marigold extract can vary depending on the form of the extract and the specific health goal. Generally, a typical dosage for marigold extract, particularly when standardized to contain lutein and zeaxanthin, ranges between 6 mg to 12 mg per day. For general eye health support, this amount may be taken in divided doses throughout the day. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific products and consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage based on individual needs and health conditions.
How to Store Marigold Flower Extract Powder?
It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to maintain its potency and prevent degradation. It is best kept in an airtight container, preferably made of amber glass or food-grade plastic, to protect it from oxidation and humidity. Refrigeration can help extend its shelf life, but freezing should be avoided as it may alter the extract’s consistency and effectiveness.
Marigold Extract VS Synthetic Lutein
When comparing marigold extract and synthetic lutein, several significant differences become apparent in their composition, bioavailability, and overall effects. Marigold extract presents a complex botanical preparation containing naturally occurring lutein esterified with fatty acids alongside zeaxanthin, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals that create a synergistic matrix. In contrast, synthetic lutein is an isolated compound produced through chemical synthesis, typically offering high purity but lacking the companion compounds found in the natural extract. This compositional difference creates distinct absorption profiles—the fatty acid esters in marigold extract powder enhance lutein’s fat solubility and stability in the digestive environment, potentially improving bioavailability compared to free-form synthetic versions.
Stereochemical differences also exist between these options. Natural lutein from marigold extract primarily contains the RR-isomer configuration found in human tissues, particularly the retina. In contrast, some synthetic versions may contain varying ratios of stereoisomers that might affect biological activity. For those researching what is marigold extract compared to synthetic alternatives, these structural subtleties can significantly impact efficacy and tissue incorporation rates, particularly for ocular health applications.
Stability considerations reveal additional distinctions. The natural antioxidants in marigold extract often stabilize its lutein content, protecting against oxidation and degradation. Synthetic lutein typically requires the addition of separate stabilizers and antioxidants to achieve comparable shelf life, particularly in supplement formulations. This natural protective matrix in the extract may contribute to extended stability during storage and after ingestion.
Environmental and sustainability aspects also differentiate these options. Marigold extract production involves agricultural cultivation and extraction processes that can be conducted through certified organic or sustainable methods. Synthetic lutein production relies on chemical synthesis pathways that may have different environmental considerations, including resource utilization and waste management. These factors increasingly influence consumer and manufacturer preferences as sustainability becomes a priority in ingredient sourcing.
Clinical research comparing these forms shows interesting patterns. While both sources can increase serum and macular lutein levels, some studies suggest that the natural extract’s complex of carotenoids and supporting compounds may provide broader health benefits beyond those observed with isolated synthetic lutein. This comprehensive approach acknowledges that both options have valid applications, with natural marigold extract often preferred for holistic health formulations and synthetic lutein selected when precise standardization or specific applications require isolated compounds.
| Property | Marigold Extract | Synthetic Lutein |
| CAS Number | 84775-58-8 | 127-40-2 |
| Active Ingredient | Lutein | Lutein |
| Molecular Formula | C40H56O2 | C40H56O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 568.89 g/mol | 568.89 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellow to orange powder | Yellow powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in fats and oils, insoluble in water | Soluble in fats and oils, insoluble in water |
| Stability | Stable under dry, cool conditions | Stable under dry, cool conditions |
| Primary Function | Antioxidant, supports eye health, skin health | Antioxidant, supports eye health, cognitive function |
| Common Uses | Eye health supplements, skin health, UV protection | Eye health supplements, cognitive function support |
| Mechanism of Action | Protects retinal cells from oxidative damage, filters harmful blue light | Similar to marigold extract, filters blue light and protects retinal cells |
| Bioavailability | High when consumed with fats | High when consumed with fats |
| Onset of Action | Gradual, benefits seen over consistent use | Gradual, benefits seen over consistent use |
| Advantages | Natural source of lutein, contains additional carotenoids | Higher purity and concentration of lutein |
| Disadvantages | May have variable lutein content depending on the extract | May lack other beneficial carotenoids present in marigold extract |
| Other Information | Derived from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta) | Chemically synthesized version of lutein |
Conclusion
Marigold extract, known for its rich content of carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, plays a vital role in promoting eye health and protecting against oxidative stress. As a natural source of antioxidants, it is particularly beneficial for supporting retinal health, preventing macular degeneration, and improving overall vision. With growing interest in natural supplements for eye care, marigold extract has become a popular ingredient in supplements targeting eye health and skin protection.
Manufacturers looking to incorporate marigold extract into their products should ensure the purity and potency of the extract, particularly the levels of key active compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin. Additionally, proper dosing and product formulation are crucial to delivering effective results and meeting consumer demands in the growing nutraceutical market.
About Nutri Avenue
As a distinguished FDA-registered supplier specializing exclusively in dietary supplement raw materials, Nutri Avenue provides essential ingredients to manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and private labelers across the global nutraceutical sector. Our operational strength rests on five strategic local inventories throughout the United States, enabling us to deliver thousands of raw materials in bulk at competitive wholesale prices.
We maintain exceptional quality standards through comprehensive third-party testing, detailed certificates, and thorough reports, while our long-standing partnerships with major factories ensure stable and abundant supply sources. Our extensive market presence spans North America, Mexico, and European territories, including Poland, Hungary, France, the United Kingdom, and South American nations such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
We facilitate seamless distribution through flexible transportation options, including sea, land, and air shipping. Beyond raw material supply, Nutri Avenue offers complete OEM and ODM services, providing integrated solutions from material procurement to product customization in diverse formats, including capsules, soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils.
* All products from Nutri Avenue can provide ISO certificates.
FAQs
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids extracted from marigold petals, known for their antioxidant properties and ability to protect against damage from blue light in the retina. They are commonly used in dietary supplements and as a natural food coloring.
When making marigold extract, the petals of the marigold flower are harvested, dried, and then processed to extract beneficial compounds, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. The petals contain the highest concentration of these compounds, making them the preferred plant part for extraction.
The FDA regulates the safety and labeling of dietary supplements such as marigold extract but does not approve them. Nutritional supplement manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products’ safety and quality. The FDA has the authority to penalize companies that engage in deceptive marketing or distribute hazardous or contaminated dietary supplements.
