Evidence supporting the use of: Chlorophyll
For the health condition: Body Odor

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chlorophyll has a long history of traditional use as an internal deodorant to reduce body odor. This practice dates back to the 1940s, when anecdotal reports and preliminary clinical observations suggested that chlorophyllin (a semi-synthetic derivative of chlorophyll) might help neutralize odors, particularly in individuals with colostomies or other conditions leading to malodor. The traditional rationale is that chlorophyll’s purported detoxifying and deodorizing properties can help mask or reduce unpleasant smells from the body, breath, or wounds.

Scientific evidence supporting this use is limited and generally of low quality. A handful of small, older studies (such as those by Howard Westcott in the 1940s and 1950s) suggested that chlorophyllin supplementation might reduce odors in clinical populations, but these studies often lacked rigorous controls and modern methodologies. More recent research is sparse, with little high-quality, peer-reviewed evidence confirming chlorophyll’s effectiveness as a deodorant in healthy individuals. Most current uses in supplements and personal care products rely more on tradition and anecdotal reports than robust scientific validation.

In summary, while the use of chlorophyll for body odor is rooted in traditional practices and supported by some early studies, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is low. It is not a mainstream, evidence-based treatment, and further research is needed to substantiate its efficacy.

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