Beta Carotene is one of a group of natural chemicals known as carotenes or carotenoids. It is converted in the body to vitamin A. It is an antioxidant, like vitamin E and C. Beta Carotene, similar to the other carotenoids, is a natural fat-soluble pigment found principally in plants, algae (Dunaliella salina, Dunaliella bardawil) and photosynthetic bacteria, where it serves as an accessory light-gathering pigment and to protect these organisms against the toxic effects of oxygen. Carotenoids are the principal pigments responsible for the red, orange, yellow and green colors of vegetables and fruits. Beta Carotene is responsible for the color of carrots. Beta Carotene is considered a conditionally essential nutrient. It becomes an essential nutrient when the dietary intake of retinol (vitamin A) is inadequate.
There is some evidence that Beta Carotene may play a beneficial role in human nutrition beyond its provitamin A function. It has antioxidant activity and it may enhance intercellular communication and may have immunomodulatory and anticarcinogenic activities in certain circumstances. It has also anticarcinogenic and antiatherogenic activities in some cases. Beta Carotene has been used for the prevention against cancer and heart disease; to slow the progression of cataracts; to prevent macular degeneration; to boost immunity; to protect the skin against sunburn; asthma; depression; infertility; parkinson’s disease; psoriasis; arthritis; high blood pressure; cervical dysplasia; intermittent claudication; etc.
References:
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/bet_0032.shtml
Alternative Medicines. http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsa1/a/BetaCarotene.htm
