Discover the top 15 health benefits of chlorophyll, from detoxification and improved digestion to enhanced energy and immune support.
When I first started drinking wheatgrass decades ago, I wasn’t even aware of what exactly made it so dope. And ditto for all the other greens I ate.
I mean, I knew they were healthy. I knew they had lots of vitamins and minerals. And I definitely knew I ate a little ‘outside the box,’ or at least back then it was.
But beyond that I had very little knowledge of the science or nutrition of plants. Or why exactly all those deep green salads or spinach smoothies I made were so immensely invigorating. Or precisely how a bowl of mixed greens and sprouts were nutritionally superior to a greasy cheeseburger or bucket of fries.
In fact it was only later—much later after I finished grad school and became a devoted researcher on all the topics I love, that I finally learned the science of living foods.
And the beauty—essentiality—of raw chlorophyll.
How it uploads into plants.
And importantly, how it fuels us.
What Is Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria that plays a key role in photosynthesis—the process by which organisms convert light energy into chemicals.
Structurally, it’s a porphyrin-based molecule with a central magnesium ion, which enables it to absorb light efficiently, particularly in the blue and red wavelengths, while reflecting green light.
This absorption initiates the conversion of solar energy into ATP and NADPH, which are used to synthesize organic molecules like glucose, forming the foundation of Earth’s food chain.
Without chlorophyll, the photosynthetic process would not occur, cutting off the primary energy source that sustains nearly all ecosystems.
Chlorophyll is also a perfect molecular match for human blood. In fact the only difference between chlorophyll and hemoglobin—our blood—is that chlorophyll rocks magnesium and hemoglobin rocks iron as their central elements.
Beyond that, the two are nearly an identical match. Which is exactly why people call chlorophyll the green blood of plants. It’s akin to our own human blood.
It’s also,“ as one author notes, “as close to the molecular structure of human blood as anything on the planet.” 💚
15 Health Benefits of Chlorophyll
Here are the top 15 health benefits of chlorophyll:
1. Boosts Red Blood Cells & Oxygenation
Chlorophyll’s molecular structure is nearly identical to hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Studies suggest that consuming chlorophyll can support red blood cell production, improving oxygen transport and boosting overall energy levels.
2. Powerhouse Antioxidants
Chlorophyll is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, which help neutralize free radicals that contribute to aging, inflammation, and diseases like cancer and heart disease. It also sports the powerhouse superoxide dismutase (SOD)—a bioactive enzyme that curbs oxidative stress.
3. Supports Liver Detox
Chlorophyll binds to heavy metals, toxins, and carcinogens, aiding the liver in flushing them from the body. Research has shown that chlorophyll enhances phase II liver detoxification enzymes, improving the body’s ability to eliminate harmful substances.
4. Promotes Gut Health & Digestion
Chlorophyll has been found to support a healthy gut microbiome by reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial bacteria. It can also help alleviate constipation and improve digestion by supporting gut motility.
5. Neutralizes Body Odors
Due to its internal deodorizing effects, chlorophyll helps reduce bad breath (halitosis) and body odor by neutralizing odorous compounds in the gut and bloodstream. It is often used in medical settings to help manage odors in patients with colostomies and incontinence.
6. May Help Prevent Cancer
Studies suggest that chlorophyll can bind to potential carcinogens (such as those found in grilled meats and environmental toxins), reducing their absorption and lowering the risk of cancer. Research has particularly highlighted its protective effects against liver and colon cancer.
7. Reduces Inflammation
Chlorophyll possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. It has been found to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to calm the immune system.
8. Boosts the Immune System
Research indicates that chlorophyll supports the immune system by enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections, promoting wound healing and stimulating the production of white blood cells.
9. Supports Weight Loss & Metabolism
Studies suggest that chlorophyll may aid in weight loss by reducing hunger and cravings. It’s been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, improve metabolism, and reduce body fat accumulation when combined with a healthy diet.
10. Accelerates Wound Healing & Skin Repair
Chlorophyll has antibacterial properties that help prevent infections in wounds and cuts. Studies have shown that chlorophyll-based treatments can speed up wound healing, reduce redness, and improve skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
11. Alkalizes the Body & Balances pH
Chlorophyll-rich foods help maintain an alkaline environment in the body, which helps support health and reduces the risk of diseases linked to excess acidity, such as osteoporosis and inflammation-related conditions.
12. Improves Iron Absorption & Prevents Anemia
Since chlorophyll supports red blood cell production, it can be beneficial for individuals with anemia or low iron levels. It helps the body utilize and absorb iron more efficiently, reducing fatigue and improving energy levels.
13. Offsets UV Damage & Supports Skin Health
Topical and dietary chlorophyll have been shown to reduce skin damage caused by UV radiation. Some research suggests that chlorophyll can act as a natural sunscreen, reducing oxidative stress and preventing premature aging.
14. Regulates Blood Sugar & Supports Diabetes Management
Studies show that chlorophyll can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing insulin resistance and supporting individuals with type 2 diabetes. It may also help prevent blood sugar spikes by improving glucose metabolism.
15. Boosts Cognition & Brain Health
Chlorophyll’s ability to improve oxygen delivery to cells helps boost cognitive function, mental clarity, memory, and focus. Better circulation and oxygenation can support brain health, reducing brain fog and promoting better overall neurological efficiency.
Drinking chlorophyll is a simple and effective way to harness its benefits, providing the body with a concentrated dose of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and more.
One of its most useful advantages is its ability to support detox by aiding liver function and helping to eliminate harmful toxins, metals, and pollutants from the body.
Regular consumption via green drinks and raw green plants can boost your energy levels and the quality of your blood. By supporting red blood cells, chlorophyll boosts circulation, improves endurance, and helps offset disease.
Other Chlorophyll Benefits
One report notes that chlorophyll “increases the functions of the heart, affects the vascular system, the intestines, the uterus, and the lungs. It raises the basic nitrogen exchange and is therefore a tonic which, considering its stimulating properties, cannot be compared with any other.”
In addition, it mitigates “carcinogens like no other food or medicine can. It acts to strengthen the cells, detoxify the liver and bloodstream, and chemically neutralize the polluting elements themselves.”
It sports “antioxidant, antimutagenic, antigenotoxic, anti-cancer, and anti-obesogenic activities,” shows studies.
Chlorophyll Foods
The telltale sign that chlorophyll is present in a plant is the color green, and the deeper and darker the green and sometimes purplish shade, the greater its content.
Which is exactly why dark leafy greens and other viridescent plants are so rich. They rock chlorophyll in spades. 🥬 🌱🌿
Chlorophyll-Rich Foods
- Wheatgrass.
- Barley grass.
- Spinach.
- Spirulina.
- Chlorella.
- Mustard greens.
- Collard greens.
- Alfalfa.
- Sprouts.
- Phytoplankton.
- Blue green algae.
- Microgreens.
- Arugula.
- Parsley.
- Basil.
- Broccoli.
- Cilantro.
- Green cabbage.
- Green tea.
- Asparagus.
- Green peas.
- Green beans.
Generally speaking, most organic green plants and sea organisms such as algae and planktons contain some chlorophyll. One study found that dark leafy greens like spinach are an epic source.
And it’s huge in grass: “Whenever anyone talks about the healing powers of grass, they mention chlorophyll first. Grasses, along with alfalfa and algae, are the richest sources of chlorophyll on the planet.”
Health Benefits of Chlorophyll
I personally drink raw organic juices like wheatgrass and barley grass for chlorophyll and more. According to one report, wheatgrass rocks 70%. It’s called ‘green blood juice’ for that reason.
And barley’s just as good.
To obtain the full chlorophyll benefits of grasses I suggest growing them yourself, cutting at about 9” tall, and consuming (juicing) within a couple of hours.
Some health food stores sell wheatgrass in trays, but barley grass is harder to find. You typically have to grow it yourself.
Check out how to grow barley grass here. A step-by-step guide to growing wheatgrass here.
You can also rock the supplemental grass powders for a hearty dose, along with other powerhouse phytonutrients.
Chlorophyllin
There’s been a lot of buzz lately about chlorophyllin drinks and supplements, so here’s what semi-synthetic chlorophyllin is:
“Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic mixture of sodium copper salts derived from chlorophyll. During the synthesis of chlorophyllin, the magnesium atom at the center of the ring is replaced with copper and the phytol tail is lost. Unlike natural chlorophyll, chlorophyllin is water-soluble. Although the content of different chlorophyllin mixtures may vary, two compounds commonly found in commercial chlorophyllin mixtures are trisodium copper chlorin and disodium copper chlorin.”
Some reports suggest that semi-synthetic derived chlorophyllin may be effective at reducing liver cancer as well as promoting other health benefits.
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, “Chlorophyllin has been used orally as an internal deodorant and topically in the treatment of slow-healing wounds for more than 50 years without any serious side effects.”
Another study reports that sodium copper chlorophyllin tablets are well absorbed. However, an article in the Oxford Journal of Nutrition found that ‘natural’ chlorophyll in whole plants is more effective than chlorophyllin at fighting colon cancer—a leading cause of death in the United States.
Which is just another reason to rock it in plants and plant-based supplements with additional phytonutrients onboard.
Liquid Chlorophyllin Side Effects
Since chlorophyllin drinks and supplements are usually not regulated, make sure and purchase from a reputable brand (like the ones above).
You should consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have medical conditions or you’re taking prescription drugs.
Chlorophyll Side Effects
Tapping chlorophyll from raw living plants and sea organisms is generally safe. Extracts and smoothie powders are for doubling up.
If you’re able to grow your own food such as wheatgrass, barley grass, and sprouts, that’s ideal. Along with rich leafy greens and other nutrient-dense raw living plants. 🌱 💚
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The medical and health topics covered on the Plate of Grass website and blog have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to prevent or cure any disease. This article and its content is presented ‘as is’ for informational purposes only.
