Astaxanthin is a natural carotenoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It boasts the highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity among carotenoids, surpassing others like ⍺-tocopherol and β-carotene¹. Its health benefits include neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects, and it may help in the prevention or treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cardiovascular diseases, and some cancers[^1^]². Additionally, astaxanthin may support skin health by preventing photo-aging and also aid in treating eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts[^1^]³.

Astaxanthin is derived primarily from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis, as well as some yeasts and bacteria⁴. In aquaculture, astaxanthin is utilized to give salmonids and crustaceans their distinctive pink color².

Footnotes

1. Andrea Donoso, "Therapeutic uses of natural astaxanthin: An evidence-based review focused on human clinical trials," PubMed, 2021. ↩

2. I Higuera-Ciapara, "Astaxanthin: a review of its chemistry and applications," PubMed Central, 2024. ↩ ↩²

3. Callum James Joshua Queen, "The Effects of Astaxanthin on Cognitive Function and Neurodegeneration in Humans: A Critical Review," PubMed Central, 2024. ↩

4. Geir Bjørklund, "The Role of Astaxanthin as a Nutraceutical in Health and Age-Related Conditions," PubMed Central, 2023. ↩