Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants. Plants use chlorophyll and light to make food. People use chlorophyll as medicine. Common sources of chlorophyll used for medicine include alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and silkworm droppings.

Chlorophyll is used for bad breath and reducing colostomy odor. A colostomy is a surgical opening made in the abdomen that allows intestinal waste to be collected in a bag. Chlorophyll is also used for constipation, “detoxification,” and wound healing.

Healthcare providers use chlorophyll intravenously for treating a pancreas problem called chronic relapsing pancreatitis.

How does it work?

There isn't enough information available to know how chlorophyll might work.

Swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
Sores caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Shingles (herpes zoster).
Bad breath.
Constipation.
Wound healing.

Intravenous:

Healthcare providers give chlorophyll intravenously (by IV) for pain and swelling (inflammation) of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Chlorophyll is SAFE for most people when taken by mouth. It is SAFE when injected intravenously (by IV) under the supervision of a trained medical professional or when applied to the skin.

Chlorophyll can cause skin to become extra-sensitive to the sun. Wear sunblock outside, especially if you are light-skinned.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking chlorophyll if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.