Chlorella growth factor

BotanicalAlgae extractBest with a meal

What is it

Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) is a hot-water extract of Chlorella vulgaris or Chlorella pyrenoidosa that is enriched in nucleic acids, peptides, polysaccharides, and growth-related factors from the algal cell.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Immune and antioxidant support

Mixed Evidence

Small human studies of chlorella overall, not isolated CGF, suggest modest immune and antioxidant effects. CGF-specific human evidence is sparse.

How it works

CGF is produced during chlorella's rapid cell-division phase and concentrates components such as DNA, RNA, amino acids, and sulfated polysaccharides. Marketing claims that these support cell regeneration and immunity. Supporting human research is limited and most data come from in vitro or small animal studies showing modest immunomodulatory or antioxidant effects. In humans, CGF is most often consumed as part of whole chlorella products rather than as an isolated factor.

Dosage

DSLD does not report a standardized dose. Typical CGF intakes from supplement labels are 100-500 mg per day, often combined with whole chlorella. No RDA or upper limit exists.

When and how to take it

Usually taken with food once daily. Some users split into morning and afternoon doses.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Liquid CGF extract

Concentrated liquid hot-water extract sold on its own or added to chlorella tablets.

Water-soluble components are readily absorbed

CGF-enhanced chlorella tablets

Whole chlorella with added or naturally elevated CGF content.

Combined with intact algal cell walls

Safety

Whole chlorella and CGF are generally well tolerated. Reported side effects include digestive discomfort, gas, and rarely photosensitivity. Heavy-metal contamination has been documented in some lower-quality chlorella products.

Who should be cautious

People on warfarin or other vitamin-K-sensitive anticoagulants should consult a clinician. Those with iodine sensitivity or autoimmune thyroid disease should use cautiously. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical advice unless from a well-vetted source.

Interactions

Chlorella products may contain vitamin K and could theoretically reduce the effect of warfarin. Otherwise, no significant interactions are well documented.

Frequently asked questions

Is CGF different from regular chlorella?⌄

CGF is a concentrated water extract of chlorella, while "regular" chlorella is the dried whole algal cell. Some products combine both.

Is it safe long-term?⌄

Quality chlorella products have a reasonable safety record at typical doses, but long-term data specifically on isolated CGF are limited.

References

Chlorella growth factor on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chlorella growth factor (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.