Chlorophyll

What does it do? Chlorophyll, the substance responsible for the green color in plants, has been used traditionally to ameliorate bad breath, as well as to reduce the odors of urine, feces, and infected wounds. Chlorophyll has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties.¹ ²

Historically, chlorophyll was used for gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, and to stimulate blood cell formation in anemia. Some preliminary evidence suggests that chlorophyll might help detoxify cancer-promoting substances.³ ⁴

Where is it found? Good dietary sources of chlorophyll include dark green leafy vegetables, algae, spirulina, chlorella, wheat grass, and barley grass. Supplements of chlorophyll as powder, capsules, tablets, and drinks are also available.

Chlorophyll has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Constipation Halitosis (bad breath)
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? Because chlorophyll is not known to be an essential nutrient, a deficiency does not exist. People who do not eat plenty of green foods lack chlorophyll in their diets.

How much is usually taken? Optimal levels remain unknown. Chlorophyll in the amount of 100 mg two or three times per day can be used to treat bad breath.

Are there any side effects or interactions? No side effects have been reported with the use of chlorophyll.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with chlorophyll.

References:

1. Rudolph C. The therapeutic value of chlorophyll. Clin Med Surg 1930;37:119–21.

2. Chernomorsky SA, Segelman AB. Biological activities of chlorophyll derivatives. N J Med 1988;85:669–73.

3. Gruskin B. Chlorophyll—its therapeutic place in acute and suppurative disease. Am J Surg 1940;49:49–56.

4. Hayatsu H, Negishi T, Arimoto S, et al. Porphyrins as potential inhibitors against exposure to carcinogens and mutagens. Mutat Res 1993;290:79–85.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.