Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, shown in numerous clinical studies to reduce inflammation markers in the body, such as c-reactive protein (crp). Our liver produces crp in response to inflammation, and it can be measured with a simple blood test; a crp level above 350mg/l is indicative of a serious underlying condition resulting in systemic inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel, lupus, crohn’s disease, infection, or other injury. An elevated crp can also be an indication of heart disease. Lowering your crp level may not only prevent muscle and joint damage from inflammation, thus decreasing the pain associated with arthritic conditions, but can also help support a healthy cardiovascular system, promote improved blood flow, lower lipid levels and reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis.