Which is better, wheatgrass or chlorophyll? A comprehensive guide

December 16, 2025 •

4 min read

Containing a multitude of beneficial nutrients, the young wheatgrass plant is made up of approximately 70% chlorophyll, the green pigment found in all plants. Yet, despite this high concentration, many wonder: which is better, wheatgrass or chlorophyll, especially when considering concentrated supplements of the latter?

Quick Summary

A comparison of wheatgrass and chlorophyll, outlining the pros and cons of each. Wheatgrass is a whole food with a broad nutritional spectrum, while chlorophyll supplements offer a concentrated dose of the potent green pigment. The ideal choice depends on individual health objectives, dietary needs, and desired nutritional depth.

Key Points

Wheatgrass is a Whole Food: Contains a complex profile of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and all essential amino acids, making it a complete nutrient source.
Chlorophyll is a Concentrated Pigment: Supplements typically use chlorophyllin, a modified, more bioavailable form of the green pigment for targeted benefits.
Detoxification is a Shared Benefit: Both have powerful detoxifying properties, but wheatgrass provides a holistic cleansing while chlorophyll offers a more direct approach.
Targeted vs. Comprehensive Effects: Choose wheatgrass for a broad, overall health boost; opt for chlorophyll supplements for specific issues like skin health or body odor.
Consider Your Dietary Needs: If you already eat a healthy diet with plenty of greens, a chlorophyll supplement might not be necessary, as whole foods provide more nutrients and fiber.
Check for Side Effects: Both can cause mild digestive issues. Chlorophyll supplements may increase sun sensitivity due to photosensitivity.
Synergy vs. Specificity: Wheatgrass's power comes from the synergy of its many components, while chlorophyll's strength is in its concentrated dose of one key component.

Understanding the Green Giants

Both wheatgrass and chlorophyll are lauded for their health benefits, but they are fundamentally different. Wheatgrass is the entire young plant, offering a full spectrum of nutrients. Chlorophyll, conversely, is a specific compound found within wheatgrass and other green plants. Understanding this distinction is key to deciding which is right for you.

The Case for Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a nutrient-dense superfood, often consumed as a fresh juice or powder. As a whole food, it provides a powerful and synergistic blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes, in addition to its high chlorophyll content.

Nutritional Powerhouse:

Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex vitamins.
Minerals: A good source of iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
Enzymes: Contains a multitude of enzymes that aid in digestion and detoxification.
Amino Acids: Offers 17 amino acids, including all eight essential ones.

Key Benefits:

Detoxification: Its high chlorophyll and enzyme content helps cleanse the liver and colon, assisting the body in eliminating toxins.
Immune Support: The antioxidants and vitamins present help strengthen the immune system.
Digestion: The combination of fiber (in powder form) and enzymes can improve digestive function.
Energy Boost: The natural blend of nutrients provides a clean, sustained energy lift without the jitters associated with caffeine.

Potential Downsides:

Flavor Profile: The earthy, grassy taste is not for everyone and can cause nausea in some users, especially when first starting.
Potency Variation: The nutritional profile can vary based on growing conditions and preparation.

The Case for Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll supplements are typically made from chlorophyllin, a water-soluble, semi-synthetic version of natural chlorophyll. This modification may make it more bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body.

Concentrated Potency:

Detoxification: Binds to heavy metals and other toxins, assisting the liver and digestive system in their removal.
Skin Health: Topical application of chlorophyllin has shown potential in treating acne, reducing signs of photoaging, and aiding wound healing.
Deodorizing Effects: Can help neutralize body and fecal odors from the inside out.
Blood Health: The molecular structure is similar to hemoglobin, and some believe it may support blood health, though direct evidence is limited.

Potential Downsides:

Isolated Nutrient: As a supplement, it lacks the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds found in whole plant sources like wheatgrass.
Potential Side Effects: Can cause stomach upset and photosensitivity, making skin more susceptible to sunburn.
Limited Research: While promising, many of the health claims are not yet fully supported by robust human studies.

Direct Comparison: Wheatgrass vs. Chlorophyll


Feature	Wheatgrass	Chlorophyll Supplement (Chlorophyllin)
Nutritional Profile	A whole food source rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids.	An isolated, concentrated form of the green pigment.
Detoxification	Supports the body's natural detoxification processes via its high chlorophyll and enzyme content.	Binds directly to toxins and aids removal, providing a more focused detox effect.
Energy Boost	Provides a broad energy boost from its complete nutritional profile.	The energy effects are indirect, related to blood oxygenation and overall cellular health.
Skin Health	Contains vitamins and antioxidants that support skin health from within.	Effective when applied topically for acne and aging, in addition to internal benefits.
Ideal For...	Individuals seeking a comprehensive nutritional boost and holistic wellness support.	Those targeting specific health goals like detoxification, improved skin, or deodorizing effects.
Considerations	Has a strong taste that some find off-putting. The freshest juice is the most potent.	Often a semi-synthetic form that lacks other whole-food nutrients. Potential for photosensitivity.

Making the Right Choice for Your Health Goals

The choice between wheatgrass and chlorophyll is less about which is inherently 'better' and more about what your body needs. If you are looking for a complete nutritional powerhouse to support overall wellness, improve digestion, and provide sustained energy, wheatgrass is likely the superior choice. Its broad spectrum of nutrients works synergistically to offer comprehensive health benefits.

On the other hand, if you have a specific goal, such as targeted detoxification, improving skin clarity from acne, or addressing body odor, a concentrated chlorophyll supplement may be more effective. Its high potency allows for a more focused effect on these particular concerns. For maximum benefits, a balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables is always recommended. Supplements should always be seen as an addition, not a replacement, for a healthy lifestyle.

Ultimately, both are valuable tools in a health-conscious diet. The decision should be based on your personal health needs and preferences. For some, incorporating both might be the perfect solution, with a daily dose of wheatgrass juice and a topical chlorophyll gel for skin concerns. Consulting a healthcare provider or dietitian is a wise step before beginning any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your health plan. For further reading on the importance of incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your diet, visit the MD Anderson Cancer Center blog.

Conclusion

Wheatgrass, the potent green grass packed with chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, is a nutritional jackpot that provides a broad range of whole-food benefits. Its value lies in its comprehensive profile, offering robust immune support, detoxification, and digestive aid. In contrast, concentrated chlorophyll supplements, typically using chlorophyllin, provide a more targeted approach, focusing primarily on detoxification, skin health, and deodorizing effects. Your decision on which is better hinges entirely on your health objectives—whether you seek a full-spectrum nutrient boost from a whole food or a more focused benefit from a concentrated supplement. Listening to your body and aligning your choice with your specific health needs will lead you to the right green elixir.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is safe to take both wheatgrass and chlorophyll supplements together. Since wheatgrass is a source of natural chlorophyll, you would simply be increasing your intake of the pigment. However, as with any supplement, it is best to start with low doses and monitor your body's reaction.

For most people, obtaining chlorophyll from natural, whole food sources like spinach and parsley is preferable. Whole foods offer a broader range of nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Chlorophyllin supplements, while concentrated, provide an isolated nutrient and lack the synergistic benefits of a whole food.

Both are effective detoxifiers. Wheatgrass aids the body's natural cleansing by providing a variety of detoxifying enzymes and chlorophyll. Chlorophyllin supplements, however, are known to bind to heavy metals and toxins more directly, offering a targeted detox effect.

Wheatgrass is more directly linked to a broad energy boost because of its complete nutritional profile, including B vitamins and carbohydrates. Chlorophyll's effect on energy is more indirect, supporting cellular health and oxygen transport.

Wheatgrass is a full-spectrum nutrient source containing all essential amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. Chlorophyll is a single molecule (or a modified version, chlorophyllin) and provides a much more isolated set of benefits.

For skin health, the approach differs. Wheatgrass supports skin from the inside out through its broad antioxidant and nutrient content. Chlorophyllin, especially in topical applications, has shown promising results in treating acne and reversing signs of sun damage.

Yes. Some people may experience digestive upset, including nausea or diarrhea, from high doses of either. A notable side effect of chlorophyll supplements is increased photosensitivity, which can make you more prone to sunburn.