Chlorophyll: The Forgotten Green Power of Cellular Longevity

Chlorophyll isn't just a pigment. It's one of the invisible pillars of vitality. Present in all green plants, it plays a fundamental role in photosynthesis, but its benefits go far beyond that: it supports cellular oxygenation, regeneration, detoxification, and may even influence the brain and mood. Far from being outdated, it's now being rediscovered through functional medicine and longevity research.

1. A structure almost identical to hemoglobin

Chlorophyll (particularly chlorophyll a) shares a tetrapyrrolic ring structure very similar to that of human hemoglobin. The main difference lies in the central ion: magnesium (Mg) for chlorophyll, iron (Fe) for hemoglobin. This similarity gives it a potential ability to support cellular oxygenation and red blood cell production [1].

2. Natural detoxification: a plant chelator

Chlorophyll is known for its chelating properties, that is, its ability to bind to toxins and certain heavy metals to facilitate their elimination via the liver and intestines. One study showed that chlorophyll can decrease the absorption of aflatoxin B1, a carcinogenic toxin, by forming a non-absorbable complex [2].

3. Cellular energy and mental clarity

Some chlorophyll-rich sources, such as AFA algae, also contain neuroactive compounds such as phenylethylamine (PEA), which has been associated with improved focus, alertness, and mood elevation [3].

4. Skin beauty, digestive balance, and inflammation

Chlorophyll has shown beneficial effects on digestive disorders, particularly through modulation of the microbiota and protection of the intestinal mucosa [4]. By reducing systemic inflammation, it contributes to a radiant complexion and the prevention of oxidative stress in the skin [5].

4 bis. Natural deodorizer: action from the inside

Chlorophyll (especially in the form of chlorophyllin) neutralizes internal malodorous compounds. It has been used to reduce halitosis, body odor, and fecal odor, especially in people with incontinence or colostomies [6][7][8][9].

5. Foods richest in chlorophyll

Dark green leafy vegetables are the richest: spinach, kale, watercress, chard, raw broccoli, parsley, arugula. Algae such as spirulina, chlorella and AFA contain up to 1000 mg/100 g, while spinach provides around 300 to 600 mg/100 g [10].

6. Focus: Chlorophyll in wheatgrass juice

Wheatgrass juice is one of the most concentrated sources of chlorophyll. It is also rich in minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants. Regular consumption is associated with improved cellular oxygenation, liver detox, and improved acid-base balance [11]. However, some longevity experts like Dr. Gundry have reservations due to the potential presence of lectins in young shoots. At Vāhana, we recommend cold-pressed wheatgrass juice, in moderate doses (30–60 ml), ideally on an empty stomach, and organic to avoid unwanted residues.

7. How to integrate chlorophyll into daily life?

- In homemade green juices (spinach, parsley, kale)

- In algae powder in a smoothie (spirulina, AFA, chlorella)

- In drops of liquid chlorophyll in lemon water

- In wheatgrass juice (on an empty stomach, dose of 30 to 60 ml)

- In a wellness mocktail like the 'Green Glow'

8. Is there a maximum dose?

Yes. For natural food sources, there is no strict limit. But for concentrated supplements (chlorophyllin), studies recommend a maximum of 300 mg/day. At high doses, side effects such as digestive cramps or photosensitivity can occur [12].

Bonus Recipe – Green Glow Chlorophyll Mocktail

Ingredients :

- 100 ml of coconut water

- 100 ml of cold infusion of sweet mint (Chilled mint herbal tea)

- 1/2 squeezed lime

- 15 to 20 drops of liquid chlorophyll (unflavored or mentholated according to preference)

- Optional: 1 tsp agave syrup or raw honey

- Ice cubes

- Fresh mint leaves for decoration

Preparation :

1. In a large glass or shaker, combine the liquid chlorophyll and lemon juice.

2. Add the coconut water and cold infusion.

3. Sweeten if desired, then add ice cubes.

4. Stir or shake, serve chilled, garnished with mint.

Benefits: Hydration, liver support, natural glow, refreshing and slightly alkalizing effect. Perfect on an empty stomach or at the end of the day for a digestive and cellular reset.

References

[1] Ferruzzi MG, Blakeslee J. Nutrition Research, 2007.

[2] Egner PA et al. PNAS, 2001.

[3] Sabelli HC et al. Journal of Neuropsychiatry, 1995.

[4] Lanfer-Marquez UM et al. Food Research International, 2005.

[5] Smith KC. British Journal of Dermatology, 2002.

[6] Lubbe A et al. American Journal of Surgery, 1953.

[7] Nagata Y et al. Japanese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 1994.

[8] Lucker PW. Nursing Research, 1984.

[9] Freeman G. Geriatrics, 1958.

[10] Oduro I et al. Scientific Research and Essays, 2008.

[11] Singh N et al. Mini Rev Med Chem, 2021.

[12] FDA & EFSA safety review on chlorophyllin.