Chlorophyll and haemoglobin have nearly identical molecular structures: both are porphyrin ring systems with a single metal atom at the centre, magnesium in chlorophyll and iron in haemoglobin. This structural similarity has prompted research into whether chlorophyll compounds can support haem synthesis. More robustly evidenced is chlorophyll's role as a binding agent for carcinogens, which has produced measurable anti-cancer effects in human trials.
The Evidence
- Carcinogen binding: chlorophyllin (a water-soluble derivative of chlorophyll) forms tight molecular complexes with aflatoxin B1, a potent liver carcinogen from mould on grains; a randomised controlled trial in Qidong, China, found that chlorophyllin supplementation reduced aflatoxin-DNA adducts by 55 percent, a direct measure of carcinogen exposure
- Anti-mutagenic activity: chlorophyll reduces the mutagenicity of heterocyclic amines formed in cooked meat, potentially explaining the protective association between vegetable consumption and meat-containing diets
- Wound healing: topical chlorophyllin has demonstrated accelerated wound healing in controlled trials; the mechanism involves reduction of bacterial colonisation and stimulation of fibroblast activity
- The practical implication: the intense green colour of vegetables is a reliable proxy for chlorophyll content; dark kale, spinach, watercress, and fresh herbs are the richest sources
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