Chlorophyll is a naturally occurring pigment found in plants and algae that creates their characteristic green color. Its primary function is to facilitate photosynthesis, whereby sunlight is used to generate chemical energy for the plant.[1] There are several types of chlorophyll that are together considered the most abundant pigments on Earth, but chlorophyll a and b account for over 99% of naturally occurring chlorophyll.[2] Chlorophyll is a phytonutrient, meaning it is a biologically active but non-nutritive substance found in plants that may contribute to health. Some food sources particularly rich in chlorophyll include spinach, arugula, broccoli, green beans, and peas.[2] Natural chlorophyll is highly unstable and prone to degradation; therefore, most chlorophyll supplements (including those used in studies) actually contain a semisynthetic derivative of chlorophyll called sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC), which has been chemically modified to increase its stability and solubility.[2] While chlorophyll has demonstrated potential health benefits in preclinical research, its effects in humans are poorly understood.
What is chlorophyll?
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•Last Updated: October 13, 2024