Your favorite influencers swear by chlorophyll water. They claim a few drops of liquid chlorophyll with 8 ounces of H2O can do everything from improving their energy levels to soothing pimples. Is there any merit to their claims, or are they simply seeking attention with the latest internet fad?
Chlorophyll is essential for plants, as it enables photosynthesis, the process by which they use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into food. Some sources suggest that chlorophyll can treat various health issues, but while it may provide some benefits, it’s not a cure-all. So, what happens to your body if you drink liquid chlorophyll every day? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is one type of phytochemical responsible for giving plants their pigments. The other two are the carotenoids (yellow, orange and red) and anthocyanins (red, blue and purple). These substances also contain nutrients that aid in various bodily processes, from converting energy into food to whisking free radicals from cells before they can cause damage. One of the most popular sources of chlorophyll is called spirulina, from algae.
How Liquid Chlorophyll Works
To take liquid chlorophyll, follow the directions on your selected supplement bottle. It comes in liquid and powder forms, but many consumers opt for liquid as it is easier to dissolve in water. Although there's no recommended dietary allowance, the average supplement serving is 100 milligrams per 8 ounces of water.
Chlorophyll Benefits
People often add chlorophyll to smoothies—it's a part of many popular greens powder supplements. You know what it does in plants, but what does liquid chlorophyll do to the human body? Unfortunately, there is a lack of quality clinical trials in human to determine definitive health benefits from chlorophyll, according to a 2023 review study published in Molecules. Here are five potential health benefits.
Might Support a Healthy Aging Process
You might know of retinoids as weapons in your healthy-aging war chest. However, using them means going through the dreaded "retinol uglies." What if there was a better way, like taking chlorophyll?
Researchers investigated the effect of sodium copper chlorophyllin, a type of chlorophyll supplement, compared to a 0.025% tretinoin (retinol) cream and placebo. Both the retinoid and chlorophyll groups saw statistically significant improvements in skin thickness and texture. Researchers theorize that using them together can slow some hyaluronic acid loss, which leads to sagging and wrinkles, according to a 2016 study published in Clinical Cosmetic and Investigation Dermatology. However, research around healthy aging and chlorophyll is limited, and more is needed for proper conclusions.
May Help Clear Acne
Aging skin isn't the only kind that benefits from liquid chlorophyll. It might also help treat the acne that often plagues younger adults, although, to date, research is limited.
Phototherapy is often used to treat severe acne. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, using chlorophyll in conjunction with light therapy resulted in better improvements than the lamp alone.
May Reduce the Risk of Certain Types of Cancer
A small study of 50 adults showed that a diet high in leafy green vegetables naturally laden with chlorophyll reduced colon cancer risk, according to a 2019 study published in Nutrients.
Another study examined the use of chlorophyllin, derived from chlorophyll, in combination with photodynamic therapy (light therapy) to treat cervical cancer, according to the 2023 research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Might Heal Wounds More Quickly
Chlorophyll, which has been research since the 1950's was used as a topical treatment for wounds and burns. One substance typically used is papain from papaya, and an older study published in 2008 in Wound Management & Prevention found that adding chlorophyll significantly reduced pain.
Once again, research supports this theory. A 2021 study published in Dermatology showed that adding chlorophyll from microalgae helped stimulate dermal regeneration in full-thickness skin wounds without any harmful side effects.
May Combat Anemia
There's hope for the vegan crowd regarding anemia. Although this population runs a higher risk due to the lack of animal protein in their diets, they may be able to combat it by consuming more dark, leafy greens or taking a liquid chlorophyll supplement.
Providing chlorophyll to patients receiving dialysis resulted in improved hemoglobin and hematocrit numbers, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents. They also had an increase in blood iron reserves.
Potential Side Effects
There are several potential side effects of liquid chlorophyll substances that you should know:
- Nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps: You may experience significant abdominal discomfort, especially if you take liquid chlorophyll on an empty stomach. It's similar to taking iron—it goes best with food.
- Diarrhea: Large doses of chlorophyll can cause diarrhea. It can dehydrate you, especially if you also vomit.
- Photosensitivity: You might become more susceptible to sunburn.
What to Look For
When researching liquid chlorophyll supplements, look for those containing chlorophyllin. This form is easiest for your body to use. However, talk to your primary health care provider or registered dietitian before taking supplements.
Foods Rich in Chlorophyll
You can also get your daily chlorophyll dose through food. This method may prove superior because of the additional nutrients from leafy greens and other green vegetables. Look for the following:
- Wheatgrass
- Kale
- Arugula
- Spinach
- Parsley
- Broccoli
- Collard greens
- Alfalfa
- Asparagus
The Bottom Line
Chlorophyll may have health benefits, such as supporting your skin health and reducing your risk of certain types of cancer, but the lack of quality research is not available to say for sure. For most people, taking liquid chlorophyll may be a safe way to increase their intake of healthy greens. However, getting your daily chlorophyll dose through food is the best option, since you'll also get additional nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, you can take chlorophyll water daily. However, some people are sensitive. Start with a low dose and take only as much as your system will tolerate, stopping if you develop side effects. That being said, there's no need to drink it; there are foods you can eat to get your chlorophyll dose.
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You should refrigerate liquid chlorophyll to deter bacterial growth, just as you'd throw kale or cabbage in the crisper drawer. It also tastes much better chilled.
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Liquid chlorophyll may be healthy for most people. You should avoid drinking chlorophyll in large amounts as there can be significant side effects, such as diarrhea, loose stools and stomach cramps, according to the National Library of Medicine. If you take any medications or herbal supplements, make sure to talk to your doctor first to avoid any interaction.
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Patients who take methotrexate shouldn't take liquid chlorophyll, due to one older study indicating that supplementation with chlorophyll delayed clearance of this medication, according to the 2014 study published in the Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice. Sources are mixed on using this supplement during pregnancy. While many authorities believe it is safe, others rightly note that it can increase gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting. When in doubt, it's best to avoid it.
