NATURAL ASTAXANTHIN
Introduction
Natural astaxanthin is a carotenoid with strong antioxidant properties, which has the effects of antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-tumour and prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It has been used internationally in health food, high-end cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other fields. Astaxanthin itself is not very stable, easy to oxidise, easy to decompose in the light, and most of them retain their activity in the form of astaxanthin gel on the market.
Chemical properties
The chemical name of astaxanthin is 3,3'-dihydroxy-4,4'-diketone-β,β'-carotene, the molecular formula is C40H52O4, the crystalline astaxanthin is pink, the melting point is 215-216℃, insoluble in water, fat-soluble, and easily soluble in most organic solvents such as chloroform, acetone and benzene. The conjugated double bond chain in the molecular structure of astaxanthin, as well as the unsaturated ketone and hydroxyl groups at the end of the conjugated double bond chain, can attract unpaired electrons of free radicals or provide electrons to free radicals, thus removing free radicals and exerting antioxidant effects.
USE
Using the antioxidant and immune-promoting effects of astaxanthin, it can be made into a drug to prevent oxidative tissue damage. Studies show that astaxanthin can protect the ability of the nervous system, especially the brain and spine, through the blood-brain barrier, and can effectively treat central nervous system injuries such as ischaemic repeated perfusion injury, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's syndrome and Alzheimer's syndrome; effectively prevent retinal Oxidation and damage to photosensitive cells have a good effect on improving retinal function.
