What is chlorophyll drink made of?

November 27, 2025 •

4 min read

Over recent years, the vibrant green chlorophyll drink trend has surged in popularity across social media platforms, with many people adding green drops to their water. Understanding what is chlorophyll drink made of, however, reveals a key distinction between semi-synthetic supplements and homemade natural concoctions.

Quick Summary

Chlorophyll drinks are typically made from a semi-synthetic, water-soluble compound called chlorophyllin or blended fresh green vegetables. While store-bought drops contain chlorophyllin derived from natural chlorophyll, homemade versions use ingredients like spinach, parsley, and lemon for a nutrient-rich beverage.

Key Points

Chlorophyllin is not chlorophyll: Store-bought liquid drops use chlorophyllin, a water-soluble, semi-synthetic derivative, not natural chlorophyll.
Supplements contain processed ingredients: Liquid chlorophyll supplements often include de-ionized water, vegetable glycerin, and flavorings like peppermint oil.
Homemade drinks use whole foods: A DIY chlorophyll drink is made by blending raw, green vegetables like spinach, parsley, and kale with water, providing more fiber and nutrients.
Natural vs. supplement absorption differs: Chlorophyllin is more bioavailable than natural chlorophyll, which can be less readily absorbed by the body.
Supplements are more convenient: The primary benefit of supplements is their convenience and mild taste, while homemade versions offer broader nutritional benefits from whole foods.
Start slow with supplements: If using a supplement, start with a smaller dose to prevent potential side effects like nausea or diarrhea.

What is in a Store-Bought Chlorophyll Drink?

For most consumers, the chlorophyll drink they find in health food stores or online is not pure, natural chlorophyll, but a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative called chlorophyllin. The conversion to chlorophyllin makes the compound more stable and easier for the body to absorb. This ingredient is typically sourced from green plants like alfalfa and mulberry. The chlorophyllin molecule has a copper center, unlike natural chlorophyll's magnesium center.

Typical ingredients in a supplement-based chlorophyll drink:

Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin: This is the primary active ingredient, a water-soluble form of chlorophyll.
De-ionized or Purified Water: The base liquid for the concentrated formula.
Vegetable Glycerin: Often used as a stabilizer and to add sweetness.
Natural Flavorings: Ingredients like peppermint oil are added to mask the earthy taste of chlorophyllin.
Preservatives: Potassium sorbate is sometimes used to maintain freshness and shelf-life.
Acidity Regulators: Citric acid may be included to adjust the pH.

What is in a Homemade Chlorophyll Drink?

For a more natural approach, a chlorophyll drink can be made at home by blending chlorophyll-rich plants. This provides not only the pigment but also the accompanying fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are often lost in supplement processing. The resulting beverage can be a simple juice or a more complex smoothie.

Ingredients for a homemade chlorophyll drink:

Green Leafy Vegetables: Excellent sources include spinach, kale, parsley, and arugula.
Other Green Plants: Wheatgrass, celery, and cucumber also provide a significant amount of chlorophyll.
Water: The liquid base for blending.
Flavor Boosts: Lemon juice, lime juice, mint, or ginger can improve the taste.
Natural Sweeteners (Optional): A small amount of honey or fruit like green apple can be added.

Natural vs. Supplement Chlorophyll Drinks: A Comparison


Feature	Natural Chlorophyll Drink (Homemade)	Supplement Chlorophyll Drink (Store-Bought)
Source	Whole, raw green plants and vegetables.	Sodium copper chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic derivative.
Absorption	Lower bioavailability, as the compound may not survive digestion intact.	Higher bioavailability, due to its water-soluble nature and added minerals.
Nutrient Profile	Contains fiber, vitamins, and other minerals from whole foods.	Isolated compound, may contain other ingredients like flavorings and preservatives.
Cost	Generally less expensive, using readily available produce.	Can be more costly, depending on the brand and concentration.
Taste	Often described as earthy or grassy, can be improved with added flavors.	Usually has a mild, refreshing taste like peppermint or spearmint.

How to Choose the Right Chlorophyll Drink

When deciding between a store-bought supplement and a homemade drink, your personal health goals are the most important factor. While a balanced, plant-rich diet is always the best option for overall health, some people prefer the convenience of supplements.

For those seeking a straightforward, concentrated source of chlorophyllin for potential anti-odor or skin benefits, supplements offer a simple solution. These are also useful for individuals who find the taste of fresh green juices too strong. Always choose reputable brands and check the ingredient list for any allergens or unnecessary additives. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

If your goal is to increase overall nutrient intake, fiber, and general wellness, then a homemade drink is a superior choice. Blending fresh greens with water and other fruits or vegetables ensures you receive a wider spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Freshness and control over ingredients are also major benefits. For recipe inspiration, you can try combining fresh parsley, cucumber, and lemon with water for a simple, revitalizing tonic. For more comprehensive research on chlorophyll's benefits, see this review on the National Institutes of Health website: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10384064/.

Potential Benefits and Side Effects

Though many benefits are claimed, research on the effects of chlorophyllin in humans is limited. Some studies suggest potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects based on animal studies. Anecdotal evidence suggests benefits for body odor and detoxification, but more research is needed.

Possible side effects of chlorophyll supplements include diarrhea, nausea, or a green discoloration of urine and feces. These side effects are typically mild, but it's important to monitor your body's reaction and adjust your dosage as needed. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited research.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice of what chlorophyll drink to consume depends on your personal wellness journey. If convenience is key, a supplement containing chlorophyllin is an easy option, but be aware of its semi-synthetic nature. For a more holistic approach that maximizes nutrient variety and fiber intake, blending fresh green vegetables into a homemade beverage is the ideal path. Both options provide a vibrant, green-colored beverage, but they are composed of fundamentally different ingredients and offer different nutritional profiles. A balanced diet rich in a variety of whole foods, especially green vegetables, remains the most proven way to support overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Liquid chlorophyll supplements contain chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative of natural chlorophyll. Natural chlorophyll comes directly from green plants and is less easily absorbed by the body in its raw form.

Yes, chlorophyllin supplements are generally considered safe. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea or diarrhea. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Yes, you can obtain chlorophyll naturally from eating green vegetables like spinach, parsley, and broccoli. These whole foods also provide beneficial fiber, vitamins, and minerals that supplements lack.

A homemade drink can be made by blending fresh green vegetables such as spinach, parsley, or kale with water and then straining the liquid. Optional additions include lemon juice, cucumber, or mint for flavor.

Chlorophyllin has been traditionally used as an internal deodorizer since the 1940s, and some studies show mixed results. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to definitively prove its effectiveness.

Proponents claim chlorophyll helps detoxify the body and support liver function. While chlorophyll does contain antioxidants, the scientific evidence on its detoxifying effects is limited and largely based on animal studies.

Look for a supplement that contains sodium copper chlorophyllin and is from a reputable brand. Check the ingredient list for any unwanted additives and consider flavorings like peppermint oil.