Lutein

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This information describes the common uses of Lutein, how it works, and its possible side effects.

Tell your healthcare providers about any dietary supplements you’re taking, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies. This will help them manage your care and keep you safe.

What is it?

Lutein is a chemical made by plants, fungi, and some bacteria. It’s also found in some foods, such as:

Egg yolks
Kale
Spinach
Bok choy
Arugula
Cauliflower
Cabbage
Broccoli
Green beans
Mangoes
Papayas
Peaches
Oranges

Lutein supplements come as tablets, capsules, softgels, and powders.

What are the potential uses and benefits?

Lutein is used to:

Treat cataracts (cloudiness in the lens of your eye).
Prevent and treat macular degeneration (an eye condition that can cause vision loss).
Improve how clearly you see.
Prevent cancer.

Lutein has other uses, but doctors have not studied them to see if they work.

Lutein that you get from food is safe. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking lutein supplements. They are stronger than the lutein you get from food.

Some herbal supplements can affect how some medications work. For more information, read the “What else do I need to know?” section below.

What are the side effects?

Side effects have not been reported.

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What is it?

What are the potential uses and benefits?

What are the side effects?