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Zeaxanthin is isomeric with Lutein. These two carotene alcohols differ from
each other just by the shift of a single double bond so that in Zeaxanthin all
double bonds are conjugated. Zeaxanthin always accompanies Lutein in nature
(see MERCK INDEX). In Tagetes (Marigold) blossom extract, the usual source of
Lutein, about 4% of the total is Zeaxanthin.
(Formula: Lutein)
The percentage of Zeaxanthin in Lutein can be increased by treatment with
strong alcali to appr. 24%. This reaction was known since many decades
(described by Paul Karrer in 1947). Nevertheless, by error the US Patent no.
5,523,494 was granted in 1996.
(Formula: Zeaxanthin)
