Chlorophyll is the natural green pigment found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. This compound is the photoreceptor that allows plants to convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Its presence gives green vegetables their characteristic color. Interest in consuming this pigment for potential health benefits began to grow in the middle of the twentieth century.
Understanding Chlorophyllin
The green substance found in commercial supplements is not natural chlorophyll but a modified derivative called chlorophyllin, typically sodium copper chlorophyllin. Natural chlorophyll is fat-soluble and unstable when isolated, making it poorly absorbed by the human body. Chlorophyllin is created by replacing the central magnesium atom in the chlorophyll molecule with a copper ion. This chemical alteration creates a semi-synthetic, water-soluble compound, enhancing its stability and bioavailability.
Health Claims and Scientific Evidence
One of the most common applications for supplemental chlorophyllin is as an internal deodorizer. This use dates back over 50 years, where it was administered to help control body, fecal, and urinary odors in older patients. The proposed mechanism for this effect is that chlorophyllin can bind to and neutralize certain odor-causing compounds within the gastrointestinal tract, preventing their systemic absorption. Although some small, older studies noted modest reductions in odor, rigorous, modern scientific evidence supporting this claim is currently sparse.
Chlorophyllin has also been explored for its potential benefits to skin health, particularly in managing acne. The compound possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its effects on the skin. A few small trials have indicated that topical gels containing chlorophyllin may help reduce facial acne lesions and decrease the appearance of large pores. In some cases, this topical application was combined with light therapy, which appeared to enhance the therapeutic outcome.
A further claim involves the compound’s structure, which is similar to that of heme, the oxygen-carrying component of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Both molecules share a porphyrin ring structure, although chlorophyll contains copper or magnesium at its center, while heme contains iron. This structural similarity has led to the suggestion that chlorophyllin may possess blood-building properties, potentially helping manage conditions like iron deficiency anemia. More extensive human research is needed to determine the true efficacy of chlorophyllin in supporting red blood cell production.
Recommended Intake and Safety
There is no official recommended daily allowance established for chlorophyllin supplements, as they are classified as dietary supplements. It is best practice to follow the dosage instructions provided by manufacturers. For liquid forms, a typical dose ranges from a few drops to about one teaspoon (five milliliters), mixed into a beverage once per day.
For chlorophyllin sold in capsule or tablet form, dosages used in limited research have varied, often falling between 100 to 300 milligrams, taken up to three times daily. Due to the lack of extensive safety data, individuals who are pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating this supplement.
Chlorophyllin is generally considered safe when taken orally in the suggested amounts, but some side effects can occur. The most common issues are gastrointestinal in nature, including mild digestive upset, stomach cramps, or diarrhea. The intense pigment of the supplement can also lead to harmless, temporary discoloration of urine and stool, which may appear green, yellow, or even black. Since chlorophyllin contains copper, taking very high doses for prolonged periods should be avoided to prevent potential copper-related adverse effects.