Chlorophyll can slow the growth of some types of cancerous tumors – or at least, that’s one of many claims associated with this natural compound. While research is limited, studies suggest the benefits of chlorophyll don’t stop there. After all, this antioxidant-rich compound has been used as a health supplement for decades.
Potential Health Benefits of Chlorophyll
Whether taken as a supplement or adding more green veggies to your diet, boosting chlorophyll intake is pretty easy. There are many different reasons why a person may be interested in boosting their chlorophyll intake. Here are some of the potential healing powers of chlorophyll.
- Anti-Cancer Properties – Chlorophyll has the ability to bond with carcinogenic chemicals called aflatoxins, which can block the intestines from absorbing these dangerous toxins. More studies are being conducted to explore the potential for chlorophyll in the treatment of lung, stomach, liver, skin and colon cancers.
- Anti-Aging Properties – Topical applications with chlorophyllin (the water-soluble derivative of natural chlorophyll) can reduce the signs of photo-aging typical from sun exposure.
- Healthy Skin – Similarly, topical gels containing chlorophyllin have been proven to effectively reduce the severity of facial acne and shrink visible pores.
- Deodorant Properties – Another common use of chlorophyll is to reduce body odor for mobility-impaired seniors and colostomy patients. Some deodorants and mouthwash rinses contain chlorophyll for this purpose.
- Wound Care – Chlorophyll has also been used to speed up the healing process of surgical wounds. Recognized for its antioxidant properties, chlorophyll is sometimes prescribed post-surgery to help reduce the possibility of infection.
- Healthy Red Blood Cells – The chemical composition of chlorophyll is similar to hemoglobin, a protein needed for healthy red blood cells. For this reason, chlorophyll has been used to address some hemoglobin deficiency disorders, like anemia.
The Results Are In: More Research is Needed
While the potential health benefits of chlorophyll seem impressive, it should be noted that more research is needed to capitalize on the full potential of this natural compound. The existing research is quite limited, conducted with small sample groups, and sometimes even limited to animal testing.
The results so far, however, do seem promising. And since chlorophyll is a natural compound, it would be fantastic to explore its full potential and see the depth of what it can do to help promote healing, skin remedies, cancer treatment and prevention, and more. But more data is needed.
How to Get Chlorophyll
Essential in the process of photosynthesis, chlorophyll occurs naturally in plants. In fact, it’s responsible for giving leaves and veggies their beautiful green color! So it’s no surprise that the natural way to boost chlorophyll intake is to eat more green veggies: 4 servings per day, to be exact. There are no known side effects of natural chlorophyll, so don’t be afraid to eat more.
The greener the color, the more chlorophyll content present. And your grocery list can extend way past basic spinach and Swiss chard. Other veggies that contain chlorophyll include: bok choy, parsley, collard greens, algae, green cabbage, kale, broccoli, cucumbers, peas, and leeks.
Another option to consider is chlorophyllin, which is a water-soluble additive that may be used in food coloring or supplements. Diarrhea and/or discoloration of the tongue and/or urine and feces are the side effects most associated with chlorophyllin supplements.
Chlorophyllin is also the active ingredient in chlorophyll water, a popular choice for those who prefer getting their greens in beverage form rather than as a meal. Though chlorophyll water is often described as tasting “grassy,” it can be an easy option when you’re on the go.
