Chlorophyll may sound like a scary science term, but it’s actually a naturally-occurring substance that we interact with just about everyday. Do you have a big green plant at home that’s growing big and strong? It’s thriving in part because of chlorophyll.
“Chlorophyll is the compound responsible for the green pigment in plants,” writes Nutritionist Lisa Richards, creator of The Candida Diet (@thecandidadiet). “Plants, including fruits and vegetables, contain chemical compounds, such as chlorophyll, that are known as phytonutrients. They are responsible for giving plants their pigments (color) as well as providing extra protection.
According to Richards, when we (humans) ingest compounds, like chlorophyll, we can reap similar protective benefits to plants.
So what exactly are the benefits of this all-natural, all-powerful compound? We asked the experts why they turn to chlorophyll for boosting their wellness – here’s what they said:
1. Can improve skin health and appearance
The antioxidants found in chlorophyll, provided by plant compounds, work in the body to remove and reduce toxins and free radical damage that lead to aging skin (among other health issues).
Chlorophyll has antimicrobial properties that make the skin an inhospitable place for bacteria to grow, reducing acne. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory compound, which can reduce the kind of inflammation that causes loose skin and wrinkles.
The plant compounds found in chlorophyll act as antioxidants in the body, absorbing toxins and removing them from the body, thereby causing a detox effect for the skin.
Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD, Balance One Supplements
2. May improve wound healing
The use of chlorophyll as a skin healing agent dates back to 1950, when a report by Butler University showed that the topical application of chlorophyll could help treat wounds faster. The study found that chlorophyllin works to reduce bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the repair of damaged tissues, all of which result in the faster healing of skin wounds.
Additional studies on how chlorophyllin affects anaerobic bacteria showed how the plant compound could slow the growth of bacteria. In the past, topical ointments containing chlorophyll were also tested on animal wounds. The success of these experiments led to the production of commercial chlorophyll ointments for humans.
Because chlorophyll stops bacterial growth and stimulates cell repair, it's a very effective treatment for healing wounds, such as burns and skin lesions. Additionally, because it works double-time, the pain and healing time is also reduced by half.
Sofie Parker, Wellness Expert, Inboard Skate
3. Promotes detoxification
Chlorophyll has quite a large number of benefits, but one of the most impressive is the detoxification effect it has on the human body.
In one study linking chlorophyll to detoxification, researchers found that the use of chlorophyll could potentially reduce the ingestion of aflatoxin. This is a type of toxin that has been linked to the development of cancer.
In another study, researchers discovered that chlorophyll could actually be useful as a preventative compound for cancer. The risk of stomach tumors was reduced by up to 45%, and the risk of liver tumors by up to 63%. While animal subjects were used, the research still provided valid results that have since motivated further investigation in human subjects.
Ahmed Zayed, MD, Calisthenics Gear
4. Demonstrates anti-aging properties
Chlorophyll can fight the effects of aging and protect against age-related illnesses. The compound, which is naturally found in green plants, has significant antioxidant properties. Antioxidants fight against oxidative stress and free radical damage that can cause countless wellness issues, ranging from poor skin tone and joint pain to Alzheimer's and cancer. Whether you're eating more green plants or supplementing with antioxidants through chlorophyll drops, you are enhancing your natural defense for a healthier mind and body.
Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CEO of NY Nutrition Group
5. Supports healthier blood
As a potential blood builder, chlorophyll can help improve certain blood-related illnesses, such as anemia, as well as promote faster recovery in patients who suffer from blood loss.
Chlorophyll’s potential as a blood builder can be traced to its similar composition to hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is one of the primary components of red blood cells and helps transfer oxygen all over the body.
Erik Pham, Managing Editor, Healthcanal
Ready to up your daily dose of green? KOR’s Green Up contains chlorophyll-rich wheatgrass and spirulina for filling your day with wellness. With KOR, sneaking in supplements is quick, simple, and even fun. Just grab your favorite flavor, take a shot, and get ready to thrive!