Chlorophyll
Also known as: sodium copper chlorophyllin, chlorophyllin, CHL, liquid chlorophyll, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies for general consumer use; 3000 mg/day sodium copper chlorophyllin tested in one Phase I trial
What the Science Says
Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants that drives photosynthesis. A water-soluble derivative called sodium copper chlorophyllin (CHL) has been studied in humans and showed a favorable safety profile at high doses, along with early evidence of immune-modulating and antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in lab and animal models. One feasibility trial also explored whether eating more chlorophyll-rich green leafy vegetables could reduce colon cancer risk, though that study was designed to test practicality rather than prove a health benefit.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to detox your body or 'cleanse' your blood — that's marketing language with no clinical backing in the provided studies. No evidence it boosts energy, clears skin, or eliminates body odor at typical supplement doses. The antiviral findings are very early-stage and do not mean chlorophyll treats or prevents COVID-19. Eating green vegetables is not the same as taking a chlorophyll supplement.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Chlorophyll is known for its antioxidant properties and potential to support detoxification processes in the body. Some studies suggest it may help reduce body odor and improve digestive health.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 100-300 mg daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for most consumer supplement forms. One Phase I trial confirmed that sodium copper chlorophyllin reached measurable serum concentrations (>5 µM) at high doses (up to 3000 mg), suggesting meaningful absorption is possible at pharmacological doses. Absorption from food-based chlorophyll is not characterized in the provided studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most consumer chlorophyll supplements use doses far below those tested in the one available clinical trial — making efficacy claims speculative
- The antiviral and immune findings come from a single Phase I trial, in vitro studies, and animal models — not large human trials proving real-world benefit
- Sodium copper chlorophyllin is a synthetic derivative, not the same as natural chlorophyll found in food — products may not distinguish between these
- 'Detox' and 'cleanse' marketing claims for chlorophyll have no support in the provided clinical evidence
- The Phase I trial was conducted only in healthy males, so safety and dosing data cannot be generalized to all populations
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06