Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria that plays a vital role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants absorb energy from sunlight to produce food and oxygen. It absorbs light most strongly in the blue and red parts of the spectrum and reflects green light, which is why plants appear green. In photosynthesis, chlorophyll molecules capture light energy and transfer it to reaction centers where it drives the production of energy-rich molecules by separating charges (electrons and protons), which then fuel biosynthesis in the plant

. Beyond its biological function in plants, chlorophyll has several potential health benefits for humans when consumed through green vegetables or supplements. These include:

• Acting as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce DNA damage

• Supporting skin health by aiding wound healing and possibly reducing signs of aging and acne when applied topically

• Helping to detoxify the body, improve digestion, and reduce bad odors such as bad breath

• Potentially supporting blood health due to its chemical similarity to hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells

• Exhibiting anti-cancer properties in some studies by regulating oxidative stress and limiting mutagen bioavailability, though most evidence comes from animal studies

• Contributing to immune system strengthening and reducing risks of some chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases and gingivitis

Chlorophyll supplements often contain chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic, water- soluble derivative where magnesium is replaced by copper, which retains many of chlorophyll’s properties and is used in medicine and food additives

. In summary, chlorophyll primarily enables plants to convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, and in humans, it may offer antioxidant, skin- healing, detoxifying, and potential anti-cancer benefits when consumed or applied, although more research is needed to fully confirm these effects