Liquid Chlorophyll | Benefits, Uses & How It Works

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants that makes photosynthesis possible — it absorbs sunlight and converts it into the energy that nourishes all plant life. There are several types, with Chlorophyll a and b representing about 99% of the Chlorophyll species found in edible plants. Rich natural sources include spinach, kale, lettuce, basil, and alfalfa.

Most Liquid Chlorophyll supplements — including Nature's Sunshine's Liquid Chlorophyll — actually contain sodium copper chlorophyllin, a semisynthetic, water-soluble derivative of Chlorophyll. In chlorophyllin, the central magnesium atom of natural Chlorophyll is replaced with copper, and the fat-soluble phytol tail is removed. This makes the compound dissolve cleanly in water, which is why it works so well in a liquid supplement format.

Chlorophyllin has been used in traditional and clinical settings for more than 50 years, with documented applications including support for natural blood-cleansing processes, internal deodorization, and wound management. Nature's Sunshine harnesses these properties in a convenient 32-oz liquid formula designed to support blood health, immune function, and whole-body cleansing.

Blood-Cleansing and Detoxification Support. Chlorophyll and chlorophyllin are able to form tight molecular complexes with certain chemicals known or suspected to cause harm — including polyaromatic hydrocarbons found in tobacco smoke and heterocyclic amines found in cooked meat. By binding these compounds in the gastrointestinal tract, chlorophyllin may help reduce the amount that reaches susceptible tissues. Research also suggests chlorophyllin may modulate xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes, including cytochrome P450 inhibition and induction of phase 2 cytoprotective genes — complementary detoxification pathways.

Blood Health. Chlorophyll's structural similarity to hemoglobin — both share a tetrapyrrole ring structure — has historically linked Chlorophyll-rich preparations to blood health. While standard plant Chlorophyll contains magnesium rather than iron, sodium iron chlorophyllin (a related derivative) has shown documented clinical support for hemoglobin levels in research settings. Chlorophyll-rich plants like wheatgrass and alfalfa have been traditionally used to support red blood cell health.

Immune System Support. Chlorophyllin has traditionally been attributed immune-supporting properties. Preclinical evidence points to immunostimulatory effects, potential enhancement of white blood cell production, and anti-inflammatory modulation. Traditional and naturopathic frameworks position Chlorophyll as an immune tonic, though direct human clinical evidence for specific immune outcomes remains limited.

Natural Deodorizer. Chlorophyll has been marketed as an internal deodorant since the 1950s. One study in 62 geriatric nursing home patients found that the administration of chlorophyllin was helpful in controlling body and fecal odors. Another small study in Japanese patients with trimethylaminuria found that oral chlorophyllin significantly decreased urinary trimethylamine.

Antioxidant Activity. The chemical nature of the porphyrin ring allows chlorophylls to function as hydrogen donors, helping prevent oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation by decreasing reactive oxygen species and chelating metal ions.

Liquid Chlorophyll may appeal to a wide range of adults looking for gentle, plant-based internal support. It's particularly well-suited for those interested in:

• Blood health support — anyone drawn to the traditional connection between Chlorophyll and healthy blood, given its structural similarity to hemoglobin
• Whole-body cleansing — individuals looking for a daily internal cleanse rooted in Chlorophyll's documented ability to bind certain unwanted compounds in the GI tract
• Immune system encouragement — those seeking to complement their wellness routine with a traditionally used immune tonic
• Internal freshness — people interested in Chlorophyll's historical use as a natural internal deodorizer

Because this is a simple, unflavored liquid that mixes into cold water, it's easy to incorporate into almost any daily routine. If you're not sure whether Liquid Chlorophyll is a good fit for your wellness goals, our naturopath is available for a free consultation — just reach out.

Note: Since the safety of Chlorophyll or chlorophyllin supplements has not been tested in pregnant or lactating women, they should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. Individuals with rare disorders of copper metabolism, such as Wilson's disease, should limit exposure to copper additives, including supplemental sodium copper chlorophyllin.

Take 2 tablespoons (30mL) in an 8 fl oz glass of cold water daily. Refrigerate after opening.

The formula mixes easily into water, creating a mild, green-tinted drink. Many people enjoy it first thing in the morning as part of their daily wellness routine.

When taken orally, supplemental chlorophyllin may cause green discoloration of urine or feces, or yellow or black discoloration of the tongue. There have also been occasional reports of diarrhea. These effects are generally harmless. Oral chlorophyllin may also result in false positive results on guaiac card tests for occult blood — worth mentioning to your healthcare provider if you're undergoing such testing.