Lycopene is a carotenoid that has a strong antioxidant property. Though it is a carotenoid, lycopene has no vitamin A activity.

Natural Sources:

Lycopene is found in gac (a fruit with the highest amount), tomatoes, watermelon , pink grapefruit, pink guava, papaya, asparagus, basil, and parsley.

Benefits of Lycopene:

Lycopene is beneficial in the following conditions:

1. Exercise – induced asthma.
2. Prostate cancer.
3. Preeclampsia (pregnancy – induced hypertension).
4. Prevention of atherosclerosis.
5. Macular degeneration of the eyes.
6. Male infertility due to low sperm count and motility.
7. Adrenal exhaustion.
8. Prevention against the cancers of the cervix, breast, lung, stomach, esophagus, liver, and colon.

Dosage:

Lycopene is taken 10 – 30 mg daily.