What Is Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is a green pigment that is found in plants and algae. These organisms use chlorophyll for photosynthesis, in which they create usable energy from light. There are two different types of chlorophyll that are found in plants, with each type being better at absorbing light at a different wavelength. Most supplements that have chlorophyll in them actually are composed of chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic form of chlorophyll that dissolves more readily in water. Chlorophyllin is similar to chlorophyll, but contains copper instead of magnesium.
Metabolism and Absorption
Because there is little toxicity associated with high doses of chlorophyllin, it was widely assumed that it was not efficiently absorbed by the digestive system. Recent work has shown, however, that chlorophyllin is readily absorbed by the body. Chlorophyllin and chlorophyll are both able to bind to certain molecules and compounds that are thought to cause cancer. These include some compounds found in smoked meat and in tobacco smoke. It is thought that chlorophyll and chlorophyllin may bind to these chemicals and prevent them from being absorbed in the body.
Other Healing Properties
Chlorophyll also functions as an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells from free radicals, which are generated by numerous biological processes and have the ability to damage the DNA of a cell as well as damage the cell itself. There is also data that suggests that chlorophyll can also inhibit the action of certain liver enzymes. These enzymes are thought to be responsible for taking certain chemicals and turning them into carcinogens. As a result, chlorophyll may also protect against cancer as well.
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