Most people, when purchasing a supplement labeled 'liquid chlorophyll,' assume they are buying the same molecule that makes plants green. However, this is a common misconception rooted in a key chemical difference. Natural chlorophyll and its commercially sold counterpart, chlorophyllin, are not the same thing. Understanding this distinction is crucial for anyone interested in the wellness claims surrounding this popular supplement.
What is Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is the natural pigment found in all green plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. It plays a critical role in photosynthesis, the process by which light energy is converted into chemical energy. The structure of a chlorophyll molecule is a porphyrin ring with a central magnesium atom and a long, hydrophobic (oil-soluble) hydrocarbon side chain, or phytol tail. Its oil-soluble nature means it is not easily absorbed by the human body when consumed directly, making it an inefficient supplement. The best way to consume natural chlorophyll is by eating dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, parsley, and kale.
What is Chlorophyllin?
Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative of natural chlorophyll. It is created through a chemical process called saponification, which involves treating chlorophyll extract with an alkaline substance. During this process, the central magnesium atom is removed and replaced with a less reactive metal, most commonly copper or sodium. The phytol tail is also removed, which significantly changes the molecule's properties. This transformation results in a highly stable, water-soluble pigment that is easily absorbed by the body, making it ideal for dietary supplements in liquid, powder, or tablet form.
Chlorophyll vs. Chlorophyllin: A Comparison
To highlight the fundamental differences between these two compounds, here is a detailed comparison:
| Feature | Chlorophyll | Chlorophyllin |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Naturally occurring in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria | Semi-synthetic, derived from natural chlorophyll |
| Solubility | Oil-soluble and fat-soluble | Water-soluble |
| Chemical Core | Magnesium atom at the center | Copper or sodium atom at the center |
| Phytol Tail | Long hydrocarbon tail is present | Phytol tail is removed during processing |
| Absorption | Poorly absorbed by the human body | Easily absorbed by the human body |
| Use Case | Obtained from whole green foods | Used in dietary supplements and food colorants |
| Stability | Less stable, particularly when exposed to heat and acid | More stable against heat, light, and acid |
Key Differences in Supplementation
The primary reason for using chlorophyllin in supplements is its enhanced bioavailability. Because natural chlorophyll is fat-soluble, it passes through the human digestive system without being effectively absorbed. By converting it to water-soluble chlorophyllin, manufacturers create a product that the body can use more readily. This is why most supplements are sold as 'sodium copper chlorophyllin' but are simply marketed as 'chlorophyll' for ease of consumer understanding.
Proposed Health Benefits and Scientific Evidence
While many impressive claims surround chlorophyll supplements, most scientific research has been conducted on the more stable chlorophyllin. Potential benefits include:
- Internal Deodorant: Chlorophyllin has a long history of use for controlling body, fecal, and urine odors, especially in older patients. Some anecdotal evidence suggests it can help with breath odor as well, though more robust studies are needed.
- Antioxidant Properties: Like its natural counterpart, chlorophyllin exhibits antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
- Antimutagenic Effects: Research, primarily in animal and lab studies, suggests that chlorophyllin can bind to certain environmental mutagens (like aflatoxins) and may reduce their carcinogenic effects. A small human study showed promising results in reducing aflatoxin damage to DNA.
- Skin Health: Some topical studies have shown benefits for skin, including a reduction in acne. However, this evidence does not support oral supplementation for the same purpose.
It is important to recognize that many of the broad wellness claims made on social media lack strong scientific evidence, and much of the positive research has been limited to animals or specific lab settings.
Safety and Side Effects
Chlorophyllin is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed. Common side effects are mild and include temporary gastrointestinal distress such as diarrhea and nausea. A more common, harmless side effect is a green discoloration of urine or stools. It is also known to potentially increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it's wise to use sunscreen when outdoors. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use, as insufficient research exists on its safety in these cases. Always inform a healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking, especially if on other medications, as chlorophyllin can interact with some drugs, such as methotrexate. For further reading on the chemical composition and derivatives, the Linus Pauling Institute offers a detailed overview.
Conclusion
In summary, chlorophyll and chlorophyllin are not interchangeable. Chlorophyll is the natural, oil-soluble pigment from plants, best consumed via a diet rich in green vegetables. Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative developed for use in supplements due to its higher stability and improved absorption. While some research points to genuine health applications for chlorophyllin, especially as a deodorizer and for its antioxidant effects, many broader claims remain unproven. Choosing between whole-food sources and supplements depends on your health goals, but understanding the chemical distinction is the first step toward informed wellness decisions.
