Proven benefits of chlorophyll and how to consume more
In this article, we examine the possible benefits of chlorophyll and the evidence supporting them. We also look at how to take chlorophyll supplements.
What is chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is a pigment that gives plants their green color. Plants use chlorophyll along with sunlight to get their nutrients.
One of the primary ways of including chlorophyll in the diet is by eating green vegetables, such as alfalfa and spinach. Wheatgrass is particularly rich in chlorophyll and is available to purchase online as a powder, juice, or capsule.
A popular way to get chlorophyll into the diet is through taking supplements. These are available in the form of drops, pills, or capsules. A variety of chlorophyll supplements are available for purchase online.
Most chlorophyll supplements contain chlorophyllin. Chlorophyllin is a water-soluble derivative of natural chlorophyll that is potentially better absorbed by the body than other forms of chlorophyll.
The label on supplements containing chlorophyllin may list ‘sodium copper chlorophyllin’ or ‘chlorophyllin copper complex’ in the ingredients.
Researchers have studied chlorophyll for its potential as a deodorant for many years.
A study published in 1960 suggested that chlorophyll may reduce odors for people who have had a colostomy. Later, a study from 1989 found that chlorophyll was not effective in controlling odors in people who have had a colostomy. However, a 1980 study noted that chlorophyll improved lower body odor in older adults living in nursing homes.
Today, some deodorants and mouthwashes contain chlorophyll. Some people also take chlorophyll pills to help reduce body odors.
Wound-healing properties
Researchers studied chlorophyll as an aid for wound healing in the 1940s and 1950s. Some of these studies suggested that chlorophyll may help heal surgical wounds and prevent infections.
More recently, a 2008 review suggested that a medication containing chlorophyllin promotes wound-healing and reduces odors. Some doctors prescribe this medication today.
Cancer treatment
Chlorophyll has shown potential as a cancer treatment in some tests conducted on animals:
- A 2015 review concluded that chlorophyllin might help prevent and slow cancer growth.
- A study from 2005 found that natural chlorophyll reduced the risk of colon cancer in rats. The rats ate a diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, which has associations with an increased risk of colon cancer. However, the authors did not see the same results for chlorophyllin.
- A 2016 study found that chlorophyllin helped slow the progression of lung cancer in mice. The researchers administered the chlorophyllin to the mice in microscopic capsules known as nanocapsules.
Benefits that need more research
Although chlorophyll has a variety of potential health benefits, there are few adequate scientific studies to back them up, and all of them require further investigation. So far, most studies have been small and limited, and many of the potential health benefits have not been shown to work in humans.
Other possible health benefits that require more research include chlorophyll’s effect on:
- increased energy
- hormonal balance
- arthritis and fibromyalgia relief
- weight loss
Foods rich in chlorophyll
Most naturally green vegetables contain chlorophyll. Foods that are particularly rich in chlorophyll include:
- spinach
- collard greens
- mustard greens
- chlorella
- spirulina
- alfalfa
- parsley
- broccoli
- green cabbage
- asparagus
- green beans and peas
- matcha green tea
Besides chlorophyll, these vegetables also provide a variety of healthful vitamins and minerals.
Chlorophyll supplements vary widely in strength and formulation. Some supplements come in drops that a person can add to water or another drink. Others come in capsule form.
Packages containing chlorophyll supplements usually include instructions for how to use them. If not, ask a doctor or nutritionist for advice before taking.
Most liquid chlorophyll supplements recommend adding around 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) of the supplement to a drink. If the taste is unpleasant, try starting with a smaller amount and gradually increase the dosage.
For chlorophyll capsules, studies have used dosages ranging from 100 to 300 milligrams up to three times per day.
Chlorophyll supplements are generally safe to use and do not appear to have any serious side effects. However, anyone who is pregnant or breast-feeding should speak to a doctor before taking a chlorophyll supplement.
Some people may find that chlorophyll supplements cause stomach upset or skin irritation. People who experience bothersome side effects should stop taking the supplement and see a doctor.
Outlook
Chlorophyll has a variety of potential health benefits, but the evidence for most of these is insufficient and more research is needed.
Some people may find that including more chlorophyll in their diet or taking supplements makes them feel better or helps with medical conditions, such as anemia.
Always discuss health supplements, including chlorophyll, with a doctor before taking them.
A range of chlorophyll supplements are available for purchase online.
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