Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants, algae and cyanobacteria. It’s responsible for absorbing light energy during photosynthesis. Chlorophyll is what gives plants their green color.
In recent years, liquid chlorophyll supplements have become increasingly popular. Proponents claim chlorophyll water provides a number of health benefits, including improving blood oxygen levels, increasing energy, aiding detoxification, supporting weight loss and more.
But how much liquid chlorophyll should you actually add to water to reap these benefits? Let’s take a look at the research.
What is Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plants and algae. The chloroplasts contain specialized cell structures called thylakoids. These thylakoids absorb sunlight and use its energy to synthesize carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water. This process is known as photosynthesis.
There are several different types of chlorophyll:
– Chlorophyll a: This is the most abundant type and is found in all photosynthetic organisms. It absorbs violet-blue and orange-red light.
– Chlorophyll b: This type absorbs blue-green and yellowish-green light. It is found in higher plants and green algae.
– Chlorophyll c: This type absorbs blue and orange-red light. It’s found in brown algae and diatoms.
– Chlorophyll d: This rare type absorbs orange-red light. It’s found in some red algae.
The basic structure of all chlorophyll molecules includes a porphyrin ring with a magnesium ion at its center. Attached to this ring is a long hydrophobic tail. This tail anchors the chlorophyll into the thylakoid membrane.
Benefits of Chlorophyll
Here are some of the evidence-based health benefits associated with chlorophyll and chlorophyll-rich foods:
May provide antioxidant effects
Chlorophyll contains antioxidant compounds that help neutralize free radicals. This helps reduce oxidative damage to cells and tissues (1).
Some research shows supplementing with chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic water-soluble form of chlorophyll, significantly increases antioxidant power in the body (2).
May reduce cancer risk
Several rat studies reveal chlorophyll may protect against the development of liver, skin and colon cancer (3, 4, 5).
Researchers believe chlorophyll’s anticancer potential is due to its ability to block the carcinogenic effects of aflatoxin, a mold byproduct (6).
However, human studies are needed.
May reduce inflammation
Inflammation is a normal immune response, but chronic inflammation contributes to diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
In lab studies, chlorophyll shows anti-inflammatory activities by blocking the release of cytokine compounds that promote inflammation (7, 8).
Anthocyanins, plant pigments found alongside chlorophyll, also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties (9).
May support skin health
When applied topically, chlorophyll may help promote wound healing.
In one study, a chlorophyll ointment accelerated healing in patients with slow-healing leg ulcers (10).
Thanks to its antimicrobial effects, chlorophyll may also help reduce odor, mildew and growth of bacteria in skin wounds (11, 12).
May protect liver health
The liver filters harmful toxins from your blood. Studies in rats found that supplementing with chlorophyllin protects against aflatoxin-induced liver damage. It also prevents depletion of glutathione, the liver’s main antioxidant (13, 14).
Research also shows that chlorophyll supplements reverse aflatoxin-suppressed protein synthesis in liver tissue (15).
May reduce body odor
Chlorophyll’s antimicrobial and anti-odor effects mean it can help reduce body odor when taken internally or used as a deodorant.
One study had participants consume 100 mg of chlorophyll three times per day. After four weeks, odor-causing bacteria in the stool were reduced by 38–40% (16).
When used as a topical deodorant, chlorophyll reduced odors for up to 12 hours in another study (17).
May support weight loss
Chlorophyll may promote weight loss in various ways:
– Inhibiting pancreatic lipase: Pancreatic lipase is an enzyme needed to properly digest and absorb dietary fats. In lab studies, chlorophyll inhibits its activity, which may aid weight loss (18).
– Suppressing appetite: Chlorophyll increased sensations of fullness and prompted significant weight loss over a 12-week period in overweight women, compared to a control group (19).
– Altering hunger hormones: Human research reveals chlorophyll supplements reduced hunger hormone ghrelin and increased satiety hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide YY (20).
However, larger human studies are needed.
How Much Liquid Chlorophyll to Drink Per Day
Liquid chlorophyll supplement dosage recommendations vary by product. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label.
Here are some general dosage guidelines based on scientific studies:
– For antioxidant benefits: 100–300 mg daily (21, 22).
– For cancer prevention: 200 mg, 3 times per day (based on animal studies) (6).
– For body odor reduction: 100 mg, 3 times daily (16).
– For weight loss benefits: 100 mg, 3 times per day before meals (19, 20).
To experience the benefits of liquid chlorophyll, it’s best to spread your dosage throughout the day rather than take it all at once.
For example, for cancer prevention you might take 100 mg with each meal for a total daily dosage of 300 mg.
For ease of use, add your chlorophyll supplement to water. The standard liquid chlorophyll to water ratio is 100 mg (about 1 teaspoon or 5 mL) per 8 ounces (237 mL) of water.
Some people find the taste of liquid chlorophyll to be strong. You can start with a smaller dosage and work your way up over time. Adding a little honey, lemon or mint may improve the flavor.
How to Make Chlorophyll Water
Making chlorophyll water at home is easy. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients
– 8 oz (237mL) filtered water
– 1 teaspoon (5mL) liquid chlorophyll
– Lemon, mint or honey (optional)
Instructions
1. Add 8 oz filtered water to a glass.
2. Add 1 teaspoon (5mL) liquid chlorophyll and stir well.
3. Add lemon, mint or honey to taste (optional).
4. Drink immediately.
You can adjust the recipe based on your preferred chlorophyll dosage. Use more or less water and add more or less liquid chlorophyll as desired.
Some people like to make a larger batch of chlorophyll water and store it in the fridge. However, for maximum potency and taste it’s best to drink your chlorophyll water right away.
Over time chlorophyll may cause green staining on containers, teeth or lips. This staining is harmless but can be minimized by rinsing your mouth and drinking through a straw.
Choosing the Best Liquid Chlorophyll
When shopping for liquid chlorophyll, read the ingredient list closely. Look for products made from natural alfalfa, mulberry leaves or other plant sources.
Avoid products with artificial colors, flavors and preservatives like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate.
Also, choose dark glass bottles instead of clear plastic, since chlorophyll degrades with light exposure.
Reputable brands test their products for purity and potency. Look for independent lab certifications when possible.
Here are some high quality chlorophyll supplement options:
Navitas Organics Liquid Chlorophyll
– Made from organic chlorella algae.
– 100 mg chlorophyll per serving.
– USDA Organic certified.
– Free from common allergens.
Now Foods Liquid Chlorophyll
– Derived from alfalfa leaves.
– Peppermint flavor.
– 100 mg chlorophyll per serving.
– Non-GMO and gluten free.
Medicine Mama’s Sweet Bee Magic
– Contains chlorophyll from nettle leaf and peppermint.
– 100 mg chlorophyll per serving.
– Also includes honey and lemon.
– Certified USDA Organic.
Micro Ingredients Liquid Chlorophyll
– Made from mulberry leaves.
– Unflavored and sugar-free.
– 100 mg chlorophyll per serving.
– 3rd party tested for purity.
When starting a chlorophyll supplement, begin with a low dosage and work up slowly over time. This minimizes side effects like loose stools or green-colored urine.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking chlorophyll if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medications.
Some people should avoid chlorophyll due to allergic reactions or sensitivity, including those with porphyria or HIV/AIDS.
Chlorophyll Water Side Effects and Precautions
Chlorophyll water is generally recognized as safe with very minimal side effects. However, some people may experience:
– Green-colored urine or feces: This harmless side effect occurs as chlorophyll passes through your system.
– Loose stools or diarrhea: Start with a low dosage and increase slowly to minimize digestive upset. Reduce intake if diarrhea persists.
– Sun sensitivity: Chlorophyll may increase light absorption, making your skin more prone to sunburn. Use sunscreen when outdoors.
– Discolored lips and tongue: Due to staining, chlorophyll can temporarily turn your lips and tongue greenish. This effect fades with time. Drink through a straw to minimize.
– Interactions: Chlorophyll may interact with medications that are broken down by the CY2B6 enzyme. Check with a doctor first if taking any prescription drugs.
To prevent staining, avoid drinking chlorophyll and then immediately brushing your teeth. Rinse your mouth after consuming chlorophyll water. Also, drink through a straw to prevent contact with teeth.
Chlorophyll has blood-thinning effects, so stop supplements at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery. People with a bleeding disorder should use chlorophyll cautiously.
Lastly, introduce chlorophyll slowly if you have IBS or digestive troubles. Start with a small amount and gradually increase dosage to minimize side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does chlorophyll do for your body?
Chlorophyll provides a range of potential health benefits. It may help increase blood oxygen levels, fight cancer, reduce inflammation, promote skin health, protect the liver, reduce body odors, aid weight loss and more.
What are the benefits of drinking liquid chlorophyll every day?
Drinking a serving of liquid chlorophyll daily may help boost your antioxidant intake, lower cancer risk, inhibit inflammation, promote skin healing, increase weight loss and reduce odors.
Is liquid chlorophyll good for weight loss?
Some research indicates chlorophyll may promote weight loss by reducing appetite, inhibiting fat digestion and optimizing hunger hormones like ghrelin and peptide YY. More studies are needed, but it may be beneficial when combined with diet and exercise.
How long does it take for liquid chlorophyll to work?
Benefits like odor reduction happen right away. But chronic benefits like reduced inflammation, cancer prevention and liver protection emerge after weeks or months of consistent use. Effects seem to increase the longer you supplement.
Can I drink chlorophyll every day?
Yes, it’s safe for most people to drink a serving of chlorophyll water daily, preferably spread throughout the day. Introduce it slowly and watch for side effects like diarrhea. Talk to your doctor first if you take any medications or have bleeding issues.
The Bottom Line
Chlorophyll water is a trendy supplement that may provide antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and deodorizing effects. For health purposes, most recommendations fall in the 100-300 mg per day range.
To make it, simply add 1 teaspoon (5mL) of liquid chlorophyll to 8 ounces (237mL) of water. Adjust dosage as needed. Look for high quality supplements made from natural ingredients like algae or leafy greens.
Drinking chlorophyll water daily is generally safe, with potential side effects like digestive upset, light sensitivity and green staining. Introduce it slowly and avoid immediately brushing your teeth after drinking it.
While promising, larger human studies are still needed. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking chlorophyll supplements, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medications.