Chlorophyllin

Chlorophyllin

Chlorphyllin is widely used as an internal deodorant. It is the semi-synthetic sodium/copper derivative of the phytochemical chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is the green pigmentation that gives plants their rich green color. Also known as the “green blood” of the plants, chlorophyll is responsible for supplying oxygen and nutrients to plants for nourishment. Compared to chlorophyll, chlorophyllin is highly absorbable in water. This improved water-solubility property makes chlorophyllin highly bioavailable for use in the human body. In the digestive tract, chlorophyllin works by inhibiting the actions of intestinal bacteria responsible for odor-producing substances in the stools

Benefits of Chlorophyllin

The health benefits of chlorophyllin go beyond reducing the odors of feces, urine, and infected wounds. An overwhelming body of research supports the following benefits of chlorophyllin supplements on the human body:

Accelerates Wound Healing

According to a review of one clinical study, researchers found that chlorophyllin can thoroughly cleanse lesions of all dead tissue debris and maintain optimal circulation.[1] In this way, the affected tissue receives more oxygen and nutritive elements while being free from infection, thus speeding up recovery.

Prevents Cancer

Aflatoxins are toxins produced by certain fungi that are found in peanuts, corn, tree nuts, and cottonseed. Studies show that higher levels of aflatoxins are associated with increased risk of developing liver cancer. Interestingly, one study found that chlorophyllin supplementation three times a day in individuals exposed to dietary aflatoxins reduced the levels of these toxins by 50%, thus lowering their risk of developing cancer.[2]

Prevents and Treats Thalassemia

In people with thalassemia, their bone marrow fails to produce adequate amounts of healthy red blood cells (RBCs). According to a 2004 pilot study, chlorophyllin supplementation can help treat and prevent thalassemia by boosting the production of RBCs.[3] This effect was able to reduce the number of blood transfusions needed by the participants in the study.

Helps Lose Weight and Reduce Cholesterol Levels

One of the most popular health benefits associated with chlorophyllin is weight loss support. A study found that people who took chlorophyllin supplements on a daily basis experienced a significant reduction in body fat mass and body weight compared to those who didn’t receive the supplement.[4] The researchers also found that the supplement reduced the blood levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol).

Aids in Proper Digestion

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, chlorophyllin supplementation appears to improve the digestive health of elderly nursing home patients by reducing the incidence of constipation and excessive flatus.[5]

Slows the Aging Process

Harmful free radicals are one of the major factors that accelerate aging. Studies have shown that consuming potent antioxidants can help slow the aging process and reduce its visible signs.[6-7] Chlorophyllin possesses strong antioxidant capacity along with a significant amount of essential vitamins and minerals that can effectively scavenge harmful free radicals in the body.[8]

References:

1. Brett DW. Chlorophyllin —a healer? A hypothesis for its activity. WOUNDS. 2005;17(7):190–195.
2. Egner PA, Muñoz A, Kensler TW. Chemoprevention with chlorophyllin in individuals exposed to dietary aflatoxin. Mutation research. 2003; 523-524:209-16.
3. Fernandes CJ, O’Donovan DJ. Natural antioxidant therapy for patients with hemolytic anemia. Indian pediatrics. 2005; 42(6):618-20; author reply 620.
4. Montelius C, Erlandsson D, Vitija E, Stenblom EL, Egecioglu E, Erlanson-Albertsson C. Body weight loss, reduced urge for palatable food and increased release of GLP-1 through daily supplementation with green-plant membranes for three months in overweight women. Appetite. 2014; 81:295-304.
5. Young RW, Beregi JS. Use of chlorophyllin in the care of geriatric patients. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 1980; 28(1):46-7.
6. Fusco D, Colloca G, Monaco MRL, Cesari M. Effects of antioxidant supplementation on the aging process. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2007;2(3):377-387.
7. Yu BP, Kang CM, Han JS, Kim DS. Can antioxidant supplementation slow the aging process? BioFactors (Oxford, England). 1998; 7(1-2):93-101.
8. Subramoniam A, Asha VV, Nair SA. Chlorophyll revisited: anti-inflammatory activities of chlorophyll a and inhibition of expression of TNF-α gene by the same. Inflammation. 2012; 35(3):959-66.