TikTok is an armory filled with the latest wellness trends. After all, it is the social media platform that blessed us with “nature’s cereal” and cloud bread recipes, as well as some brow-raising trends like the 12-3-30 workout and 75 Hard Challenge. Now, it seems chlorophyll water is having its turn in the spotlight, as TikTok videos of influencers adding liquid chlorophyll drops to their water are starting to surge in popularity.
The #chlorophyllwater tag has over 15.8 million views on the video-sharing app, and when swiping through, you can’t miss the sight of people chugging the dark green concoction that’s now being touted as a “miracle product.” But it’s not just TikTokers who are catching onto the new hydration craze ‒ celebrities like Mandy Moore, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kourtney Kardashian are also allegedly huge fans of liquid chlorophyll.
And while this may seem like another soon-to-disappear fad people are indulging in just to boost their social clout, chlorophyll water actually has a host of health benefits that are worth considering. For starters, it’s chock full of antioxidants that are beneficial to your body, skin, and mind. Intrigued? Ahead, you’ll find everything you need to know about chlorophyll water, plus some liquid chlorophyll products worth adding to your shopping cart should you choose to try it.
What Is Chlorophyll?
If the last time you learned about chlorophyll was back in high school science class, let us provide you with a little refresher. “Chlorophyll is a potent antioxidant that is present in most green vegetables,” says Dr. Jenelle Kim, DACM, L.Ac, a herbalist and doctor of Chinese medicine. It helps plants to absorb energy from the sun as they undergo the process of photosynthesis, she explains. (It’s also what gives these plants their green color.)
Chlorophyll can be obtained naturally by incorporating more vegetables, like broccoli, kale, spinach, peas, and asparagus, into your diet. However, chlorophyll is also is available in supplements, ointments, sprays, and liquids, in the form of chlorophyllin, Dr. Kim says. The latter is what we will focus on here, as it’s the source of the chlorophyll water trend that has taken TikTok by storm.
What Is Chlorophyllin?
Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic compound derived from naturally occurring chlorophyll, and although its chemical structure is different, it contains the same health benefits as chlorophyll, explains registered dietitian Jeanette Kimszal, RDN, NLC. “Chlorophyllin just has the added benefit of being more digestible, as it’s water-soluble,” she says.
Like chlorophyll, animal studies show chlorophyllin has antioxidant properties and may be helpful in preventing the formation of free radicals. However, there is limited information on how chlorophyllin intake affects humans and more research on the topic is needed, Dr. Kimszal adds. Therefore, it’s important to take all the claims you see on TikTok with a grain of salt.
The Health Benefits of Chlorophyll Water
Chlorophyll water certainly isn’t a cure-all, despite what your favorite influencers might say, but it does have some solid health benefits. “Because it boasts powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, chlorophyll boosts energy levels, helps to fight illness, and nourishes and revitalizes skin cells,” Dr. Kim says. Below, you will find five of the biggest benefits of liquid chlorophyll.
- Supports Weight Loss: One study suggests that adding liquid chlorophyll to a healthy lifestyle may result in more weight loss, specifically in adult women.
- Slows Aging Skin: Chlorophyll can help prevent premature signs of aging by fighting cell-damaging free radicals and improving collagen production in the body.
- Stimulates the Immune System: The antioxidants in chlorophyll are said to improve the body’s immune function and response.
- Treats Acne: While trials are still ongoing, because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, liquid chlorophyll is thought to tame mild to severely inflamed acne.
- Promotes Detoxification: Studies have shown that chlorophyll supports healthy gut function and promotes optimal liver health, therefore boosting the body’s natural elimination of potentially harmful toxins.
Again, though, there is very limited research to support these claims.
Is Drinking Liquid Chlorophyll Safe?
According to Kimszal, liquid chlorophyll drops are safe for consumption, and there are no harmful side effects associated with adding such supplements to your diet. However, if you have a health condition or are on medication, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional first. It’s also important to note that researchers haven’t yet studied the effects of taking chlorophyll in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
How to Choose Liquid Chlorophyll Drops
When shopping for liquid chlorophyll, Kimszal says to keep in mind that chlorophyll drops and beverages are not regulated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration at this time. That being said, you’ll want to look for a product with minimal ingredients and no fillers, one that has been third-party tested, and comes straight from the manufacturer. “Similarly, you should also be cautious of the dose,” she warns. “Stick to only 100 to 300 milligrams a day, and do not exceed that amount.”
Chlorophyll Water Products to Try
Chlorophyll Water Drops ($54; amazon.com)
Yes, these chlorophyll water drops are pricey, but rest assured, they don’t skimp out on quality. These drops are rich in vitamins A, B12, C, and D3, which are sure to arm your immune system with the support it needs come cold season.
E2H Earth To Humans Chlorophyll Liquid Drops ($20; amazon.com)
It’s not surprising that these liquid drops are an Amazon bestseller; they boast a simple ingredient list and offer chlorophyll derived from mulberry leaves, which are also chock full of healthy compounds such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C.
Mary Ruth’s Vegan Chlorophyll Liquid Drops ($18; amazon.com)
If you prefer chlorophyll drops with a hint of flavor, trust that these minty-flavored liquid drops will make your water a lot tastier. An added bonus? These chlorophyll liquid drops are also allergen-safe; they are nut-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
New Age Chlorophyll Liquid Drops ($14; amazon.com)
Weird aftertastes aren’t an issue with these liquid drops. They are completely flavorless and can be easily mixed into water (or your daily smoothie) whenever you feel that midday slump rears its ugly head.