If you follow health trends online, you’ve probably seen people adding dark green drops into a glass of water, creating a bright green drink. This is chlorophyll water, and many believe it can improve skin, boost energy, and help digestion.   

But does it really work, or is it just another popular wellness trend? Let’s take a closer look at what chlorophyll is and what science says about its benefits.   

 What Is Chlorophyll?   

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants that helps them absorb sunlight and turn it into energy. This process, called photosynthesis, allows plants to grow and also releases oxygen into the air. Foods like spinach, broccoli, and parsley naturally contain chlorophyll, according to nationalgeographic.com.  

When sold as a supplement, chlorophyll is often in the form of chlorophyllin, which is slightly different from the natural version. “Chlorophyllin is water-soluble and more stable because it contains copper instead of magnesium,” said Dr. Vijaya Surampudi, a nutrition expert from UCLA. This version is used in liquid drops, pills, and powders.   

 Why Is Chlorophyll Water So Popular?   

Chlorophyll has been around for a long time. In the 1940s, hospitals used it to reduce bad smells from wounds, and by the 1950s, companies were selling it in toothpaste, soap, and gum as a natural deodorizer.   

Its popularity faded for a while but made a big comeback in the mid-2010s when YouTubers started adding liquid chlorophyll to their drinks. Now, with millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, it has become a viral health trend.   

However, most of the claims about chlorophyll water come from personal experiences rather than scientific research. Many influencers believe it helps their skin and digestion, but these effects might come from drinking more water rather than from chlorophyll itself.   

 Does Drinking Chlorophyll Have Real Health Benefits?   

Some people say that chlorophyll water helps with the following:   

– Clearing acne   

– Improving digestion   

– Reducing bloating   

– Boosting energy   

Others claim it can detox the body, help with weight loss, and even prevent cancer, but these claims are not strongly supported by research.   

“Studies suggest chlorophyll may help block harmful substances, like those found in processed meats, from damaging cells,” said Dr. Ellen Kornmehl, a former cancer specialist at Harvard Medical School. She explains that chlorophyll might also protect our bodies from environmental toxins and act as an antioxidant.   

However, she warns that chlorophyll is not risk-free. It can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, interfere with medications, and, in rare cases, even encourage tumor growth. Also, because chlorophyll supplements contain copper, too much could lead to copper toxicity.   

While some studies suggest chlorophyll can help with acne, these studies used topical chlorophyll (applied to the skin) rather than the drinkable version.   

 Can You Drink Too Much Chlorophyll?   

Eating foods rich in chlorophyll is safe, even in large amounts. However, experts recommend 100 to 300 mg of chlorophyllin supplements per day. Since supplements are not strictly regulated, the exact safe limit is unclear, as per nationalgeographic.com. 

“Too much chlorophyll can cause stomach problems, skin irritation, and allergies,” warns Dr. Surampudi. She advises people to talk to a doctor before taking any supplements, especially if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.   

 Should You Try Chlorophyll Water?   

If you want to get the benefits of chlorophyll naturally, eating leafy greens is the best option. Foods like spinach, parsley, kale, and chlorella are rich in chlorophyll and also provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health.   

“Eating whole foods is always better,” said Dr. Kornmehl. “Green vegetables offer a mix of important nutrients that work together to keep the body healthy.”   

 The Bottom Line   

Chlorophyll water is a trendy health drink, but its benefits may not be as magical as social media suggests. While some small studies show positive effects, there isn’t enough solid evidence to prove it works as a miracle cure. The safest and healthiest way to get chlorophyll is by eating a diet rich in green vegetables, according to nationalgeographic.com. 

Would you try chlorophyll water, or would you rather stick to eating your greens?