Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that harnesses the sun�s energy in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll performs metabolic functions in plants such as respiration and growth. Interestingly, the chlorophyll molecule is chemically similar to human blood, except that its central atom is magnesium, whereas that of human blood is iron.
In 1913, Dr. Richard Willstartter, a German chemist, discovered the functions of chlorophyll, though scientists had separated the pigment from plants a few decades earlier. He made the above observations and also found that "the chlorophyll molecule bears a striking resemblance to hemoglobin, the red pigment in human blood. The red blood pigment is a web of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen atoms grouped around a single atom of iron. Nature's green pigment is a similar web of the same atoms, except that its centerpiece is a single atom of magnesium."
This discovery has lead to chlorophyll's becoming a useful nutritional aid for the human body. It is known to cleanse the body and especially to strengthen the action of the circulatory, intestinal and female reproductive systems. It has also been found useful in external skin applications and as a gargle. In addition, chlorophyll is known to neutralize body odors and to act as a natural deodorant.
Scientists have also found that chlorophyll helps to "thicken and strengthen the walls of the body cells of living animals." In this sense, chlorophyll is also a nutritional aid for the immune system, since it helps to strengthen cells so they can use their own defenses when needed. Chlorophyll also helps to promote the elimination of toxins from the body.
In natural health care practices, chlorophyll is mainly used in its liquid form. Green plants, especially alfalfa leaves, are used in laboratory processes to extract their chlorophyll content. Copper and sodium atoms replace the magnesium atom in chlorophyll so that it is made into a stable, water-soluble liquid. When ingested in its liquid form, chlorophyll remains unchanged until it reaches the small intestine. Of course, chlorophyll can be obtained by eating plenty of fresh, green plants, especially those that are a deep green color. However, in plant form, chlorophyll is surrounded by fat substances which may result in only partial absorption in the small intestine.
Chlorophyll has been found to be non-toxic, soothing to body tissues and safe for use by people of all ages. It can be used to clean fruits and vegetables when a few drops are added to water.
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