Why is everyone drinking chlorophyll? Breaking down the green supplement trend

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

With the #chlorophyll hashtag boasting over 81 million views on TikTok, it's clear this green supplement has captured public attention. But beyond the viral videos, why is everyone drinking chlorophyll, and what are the actual benefits behind this popular wellness trend?

Quick Summary

This article explores the rise of liquid chlorophyll as a wellness trend, examining the difference between natural chlorophyll and chlorophyllin. It investigates purported benefits for detox, skin, and body odor, reviews supporting scientific evidence, and details practical considerations for use.

Key Points

Social Media Driven: The recent surge in chlorophyll's popularity is largely attributed to viral content on social media platforms like TikTok.
Supplements vs. Nature: Most supplements use chlorophyllin, a water-soluble derivative, which may be more bioavailable than the natural chlorophyll found in green plants.
Limited Scientific Evidence: While some studies show promise for skin health and detoxification, robust scientific evidence is lacking for many of the widely promoted benefits.
Internal Deodorizer: Chlorophyllin has been used for decades as an internal deodorizer to help combat body odor and bad breath, with some studies supporting this effect.
Mild Side Effects: Common side effects are generally mild and can include digestive upset, discolored stool, and temporary tooth staining.
Supplement Safety: As with any supplement, quality varies, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended before use, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

From plant pigment to wellness potion: The rise of liquid chlorophyll

Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants essential for photosynthesis, has been repurposed for human consumption in supplement form. Most products on the market don't contain natural chlorophyll but rather a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative called chlorophyllin. This modification makes it more stable and potentially easier for the body to absorb. The trend's resurgence, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has been fueled by influencers showcasing emerald-hued drinks and touting a wide range of benefits, from clearer skin to increased energy.

The alleged benefits of drinking chlorophyll

Supporters of liquid chlorophyll credit it with numerous health-enhancing properties. These are often categorized across several key areas of wellness:

Detoxification and digestive health

Internal cleansing: Proponents claim that chlorophyll binds to toxins and heavy metals in the gut, promoting their elimination and supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways.
Gut microbiome support: Some studies suggest that chlorophyll acts as a prebiotic, fostering a balanced intestinal flora and aiding in digestion. This can help reduce bloating and discomfort.
Liver support: Chlorophyll may assist the liver in its detoxification process, and some evidence suggests it could help protect liver cells.

Skin clarity and anti-aging

Acne reduction: Chlorophyllin's anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties may help soothe skin and reduce blemishes.
Antioxidant protection: Its potent antioxidant effects are thought to neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Wound healing: When applied topically, chlorophyllin has been linked to accelerated skin healing and repair.

Natural deodorization and energy boost

Internal deodorant: One of the longest-standing uses of chlorophyllin is as an internal deodorizer, helping to neutralize body odors and freshen breath from the inside out.
Increased energy: Due to its structural similarity to hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells, some believe chlorophyll can improve blood quality and enhance oxygen transport, leading to increased energy levels.

What the science actually says

While the list of potential benefits is impressive, the scientific evidence to back many of these claims is still limited and often derived from small, preliminary studies or animal trials. For instance, a 2014 study observed greater weight loss in women taking a green plant membrane supplement containing chlorophyll, though the exact mechanism remains unclear. Similarly, some small studies have shown topical chlorophyllin gel can improve acne and sun-damaged skin, but larger studies are needed. The long-touted deodorizing effects have mixed research, with some older studies supporting the claim, while others found no evidence of odor change. It is important to remember that supplements are not regulated by the FDA, and results can vary greatly.

Comparison: Chlorophyll vs. Chlorophyllin


Feature	Natural Chlorophyll	Chlorophyllin (in supplements)
Source	Found naturally in green plants	Semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative
Absorption	Generally poorly absorbed by the human body	Water-soluble and potentially more bioavailable
Structure	Contains a magnesium atom at its core	Contains a copper atom at its core
Benefits	Provides other nutrients and fiber from whole foods	Provides a concentrated dose, though benefits are not as well-supported by large-scale human studies
Best for...	Dietary intake through green vegetables for overall health	High-dose supplementation for specific wellness goals

Potential risks and how to take it safely

Liquid chlorophyll is generally considered safe for most people, but some side effects can occur, particularly if taking a high dose initially. Common side effects include mild digestive upset like nausea, diarrhea, or cramping. A harmless but startling side effect can be green-colored stool or urine. Less commonly, some people report mild photosensitivity, where their skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight. For this reason, anyone taking medications that increase sun sensitivity should be cautious. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use, as safety data is insufficient. To start, take a small dose—around one teaspoon mixed with water in the morning—to see how your body reacts before increasing.

Conclusion: More than a green trend?

While liquid chlorophyll's vibrant color and influencer endorsements make it an eye-catching trend, its core appeal lies in its perceived health benefits for detoxification, skin, and digestion. For individuals seeking to boost their wellness routine, adding a green supplement can feel proactive. However, scientific evidence remains limited, and many benefits reported online are largely anecdotal. The most reliable way to get chlorophyll, along with a host of other vitamins and fiber, is to eat a variety of green vegetables. For those who choose to supplement, it is crucial to manage expectations, start with a low dose, and consult a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take other medications. Ultimately, while chlorophyll can be a harmless addition to a healthy lifestyle, it is not a magic fix for poor dietary habits or a substitute for a balanced approach to wellness.

For more information on the limited science behind many supplement claims, see this article by National Geographic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Users report a range of benefits, including improved skin health (reduced acne), better digestion, increased energy, and use as a natural internal deodorizer. Scientific evidence, however, is limited for many of these claims.

The supplement form is usually chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic, water-soluble version of natural chlorophyll. Chlorophyllin is believed to be more stable and easier for the body to absorb than natural chlorophyll from plants.

Yes, some people experience mild side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. Discolored stool is a common and harmless side effect. In rare cases, it can cause increased skin sensitivity to the sun.

It is typically added to a glass of water, smoothie, or juice. It's recommended to start with a small dose, like one teaspoon, and gradually increase if tolerated well.

Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest chlorophyll can bind to certain toxins in the gut, promoting their elimination. However, it should not be considered a miracle detox and works best alongside a healthy diet.

Early studies, particularly with topical chlorophyllin gels, have shown promise for reducing acne and minimizing the appearance of pores. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties are often cited as potential benefits.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before taking a chlorophyll supplement, as there is insufficient safety data for these groups.