Liquid chlorophyll has become a popular general wellness supplement. The liquid product sold in health stores is not natural chlorophyll, the fat-soluble molecule found in plants, but a semi-synthetic derivative called chlorophyllin. This water-soluble compound is typically added to cold water to create a vibrant green drink. Understanding the chemical differences between natural chlorophyll and the supplement form is necessary to determine whether a hot beverage like tea will reduce its effectiveness.
The Impact of Heat on Liquid Chlorophyll
The natural chlorophyll in plants contains a central magnesium ion, which is unstable and easily displaced by acid or heat, causing the pigment to degrade rapidly into an olive-brown compound. Chlorophyllin, the form used in supplements, is created by removing this magnesium and replacing it with a copper ion, resulting in sodium copper chlorophyllin. This structural change makes the supplement more stable against light, acid, and temperature.
Despite this improved stability, chlorophyllin is not impervious to heat, and exposing it to high temperatures will diminish its potency. Scientific studies show that decomposition occurs even between \(25^{\circ}\text{C}\) and \(100^{\circ}\text{C}\). The degradation process causes a loss of the primary component believed to carry the beneficial properties at a faster rate than the overall compound. Therefore, while a quick pour into warm tea may not destroy it instantly, prolonged exposure to steaming hot temperatures will reduce the supplement’s intended biological activity.
Optimal Preparation: Mixing Chlorophyll with Warm Beverages
To minimize degradation, users should wait until their tea has cooled to a warm, drinkable temperature before adding the supplement. Boiling water accelerates the breakdown of the compound, so waiting for the temperature to fall below \(60^{\circ}\text{C}\) or \(140^{\circ}\text{F}\) helps retain the compound’s integrity. This warm temperature allows the supplement to mix more easily than in cold water while avoiding rapid thermal breakdown.
When mixing, stir the chlorophyllin thoroughly to ensure it is evenly dispersed and prevent concentration in one area of the cup. The supplement has a distinct, mildly earthy or grassy flavor, which can be noticeable in delicate teas. Pairing it with teas that have strong, complementary flavors, such as mint, ginger, or lemon, can effectively mask this taste. Users should adhere to the dosage instructions provided on the supplement bottle.
Common Reasons for Supplementing with Chlorophyll
People turn to liquid chlorophyllin supplements for several benefits, though human clinical evidence for many claims remains limited. One frequently cited use is its function as an internal deodorizer, with many users reporting a reduction in body odor and persistent bad breath. The compound is believed to work by binding to certain odor-causing compounds in the body.
Another popular reason for taking the supplement is to support skin health, as some anecdotal evidence suggests it can help manage acne and improve appearance. Consumers also take chlorophyllin for general wellness, attributing benefits such as increased energy and support for the body’s natural detoxification processes.