by: Joel Thuna

Necessary for the existence of life, as we know it, chlorophyll is the deep, dark green pigment found in plants. Through photosynthesis, chlorophyll converts light energy from the sun into chemical energy, while releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. This energy is stored in plants as carbohydrates then, once eaten, used by humans and animals. Thus, energy enters the food chain.

For many years chlorophyll was primary used as a colouring agent. It's rich green colour enhances many products from soap to candy, and chlorophyll has also been used as a mouthwash and internal deodorant. 1

Recent studies investigated chlorophyll's use as a supplement, and found it to be "a natural source of magnesium and several trace elements." 2

Often referred to as "green blood" and "oxygenated sunshine", these nicknames refer to chlorophyll's similarity in make-up to human blood and its high oxygen level.3

Chlorophyll is remarkably similar to the red pigment in our blood known as hemoglobin. The difference is that hemoglobin is composed of a protein complex surrounding a single iron atom, in chlorophyll a similar complex surrounds a single magnesium atom.4

The discovery of this similarity led doctors to use chlorophyll in cases of anemia, with promising results. Research conducted at Temple University in Philadelphia, around the same time, found "The green solution (chlorophyll) seemed to thicken and strengthen the walls of cells in living animals". That finding led them to ask, "Might not chlorophyll be useful in helping the body combat bacterial invaders?"5

Further study of the antiseptic qualities of chlorophyll led to a startling discovery; chlorophyll had no antiseptic properties of its own. However, chlorophyll does have the ability to assist animal tissue in combating and killing germs. By strengthening the tissue chlorophyll increases the disease resistance of cells and, at the same time, inhibits the growth of bacteria.6

Chlorophyll's action as a healer is nothing short of remarkable. Time after time it has proven itself to be gentle to the body while devastating to infections. Chlorophyll has been observed to combat deep-lying infections, cleanse open wounds, relieve chronic sinus conditions, and exile common colds.7

Possessing an abundant mineral content, particularly high in iron, potassium, copper, and magnesium, enables chlorophyll to help the body. The iron in chlorophyll attracts oxygen, which aids in the treatment of anemia and rejuvenates the thyroid. Potassium plays a key role in good heart health while helping the body build and maintain muscle. Copper augments the bloodstream and is vital for overall health. These minerals are naturally sourced within chlorophyll, allowing them to be readily absorbed by the body.8

Chlorophyll is especially interesting for people managing their weight. It possesses several properties which can enhance weight management regimes.

• Acting as an internal deodorizer and cleanser, chlorophyll helps purge toxins from the digestive tract and blood.
• Chlorophyll works to normalize blood sugar levels, thereby helping to reduce the dreaded "sugar cravings" associated with weight loss.
• By providing nutrients (primarily trace minerals) and energy to the body when it is most in need, during a weight loss program, chlorophyll acts as a "green tonic".
• As a single component in a multi-component approach, chlorophyll complements the other aspects of your weight loss plan, enabling the program as a whole to work better and allowing you to reach your goals faster.

Once you reach your desired weight, chlorophyll will become an effective and valuable aspect of your healthy program for weight maintenance.

1 Martindale, W.; The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 26th Edition.
2 Holly, C., D.N.; Chlorophyll for Energy,
Alive, #142.
3 Doerksen, D., The Green Revolution,
Alive, #146.
4 Kirschner, H.E. M.D.; Nature's Healing Grasses.
5 Ibid.
6 Ibid.
7 Ibid.
8 Jensen, B., The Healing Power of Chlorophyll.
9 Ibid.