Chlorophyll
Chlorophyllin (Liquid Chlorophyll)
Chlorophyllin is a water-soluble, semi-synthetic derivative of chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, commonly sold as 'liquid chlorophyll' dietary supplements. It is primarily used for its purported antioxidant, detoxifying, and deodorizing properties, with growing interest in skin health, wound healing, and potential anti-carcinogenic effects. Unlike natural chlorophyll, chlorophyllin replaces the magnesium ion with copper and sodium, making it more stable and bioavailable for oral use.
Mechanism of Action
Chlorophyllin acts as a potent antioxidant by neutralizing reactive oxygen species and free radicals, and binds to and sequesters environmental mutagens and carcinogens (such as aflatoxin B1) in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing their systemic absorption. It may inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in carcinogen activation while upregulating phase II detoxification enzymes, supporting the NRF2 antioxidant pathway. Its internal deodorizing effect is thought to result from direct binding to odor-causing compounds such as trimethylamine in the gut, reducing their excretion.
Evidence by Health Goal(11 goals)
Dosing Protocols
With meals
Most liquid chlorophyll supplements provide 100mg per serving (approximately 1 tablespoon). Start with a single daily dose and titrate up as tolerated. Green discoloration of stool and urine is expected and harmless.
Applied directly to affected skin or wounds
Used in wound care and for acne or photoaging. Commercial topical preparations are available; some studies support use for acne reduction and mild photoprotection. Avoid contact with eyes.
Safety & Side Effects
Chlorophyllin has a well-established safety profile and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food additive; adverse effects are typically mild and dose-dependent. Long-term safety data in humans are limited for high doses, and individuals with known plant allergies or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Possible Side Effects
- !Green discoloration of stool, urine, or skin (harmless, very common)
- !Gastrointestinal discomfort including cramping or loose stools at higher doses
- !Nausea, particularly when taken on an empty stomach
- !Yellow or black discoloration of the tongue with liquid preparations
- !Mild photosensitivity reactions in sensitive individuals
- !Diarrhea with prolonged high-dose use
- !Allergic contact dermatitis with topical application (rare)
Interactions
- -May reduce absorption of fat-soluble medications or supplements (e.g., vitamins A, D, E, K) by binding in the GI tract — separate dosing by at least 2 hours
- -Potential additive photosensitivity when combined with photosensitizing drugs such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, or St. John's Wort
- -May theoretically reduce oral bioavailability of certain drugs by sequestering them in the gut — caution advised with narrow therapeutic index medications
- -May modestly inhibit CYP1A2 enzymes, potentially altering metabolism of caffeine, theophylline, or certain antidepressants at high doses
Cost & Where to Buy
Liquid chlorophyll supplements are widely available over the counter. Cost varies by brand, concentration, and whether sodium copper chlorophyllin or natural chlorophyll is used. Higher-end brands with verified purity testing tend to cost more.
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