Sango coral comes from fossilised coral reef deposits on the island of Okinawa, southern Japan — one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” famous for the exceptional healthy longevity of its population, which scientists partly attribute to the naturally mineral-rich water from Sango coral that Okinawans have drunk for centuries. What makes it unique is its naturally complex mineral matrix: calcium (34–40%) as natural calcium carbonate, in a crystalline structure close to that of human bone tissue; magnesium (~2%) in a 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio, matching the ratio recommended for bone health; and 74+ trace elements — iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron, silicon, selenium, chromium, molybdenum — in tiny but biologically relevant amounts. Sustainable harvesting: the Sango coral used in Coraline is harvested from fossil land deposits, not living reefs — formed millions of years ago when reefs were uplifted by tectonic movement. No impact on living coral reefs.

One of the most interesting properties of Sango coral calcium is its alkalising nature. Modern diets (meat, refined grains, sugar, alcohol, coffee) tend to acidify the body, and this excess acidity is compensated by drawing on mineral reserves — mainly bone, which releases calcium to buffer acidity. Coral calcium, as a natural carbonate, acts as an alkaline buffer: it neutralises excess tissue acidity without depleting bone reserves, provides directly bioavailable calcium for bone mineralisation, and its trace elements (boron, silicon, manganese) support bone metabolism.

Calcium bioavailability depends on its chemical form and absorption environment. Sango coral calcium has specific advantages: a naturally fine, regular crystalline structure that dissolves more easily in the stomach than synthetic calcium carbonate; its magnesium content improves intestinal calcium absorption and use by bone-building cells; boron, silicon and manganese act as bone-mineralisation cofactors; and its ionic nature dissolves readily in the stomach’s mildly acidic pH, releasing readily absorbable calcium ions. To optimise absorption, pair coral calcium with vitamin D3 (which increases intestinal calcium absorption) and vitamin K2 (which directs calcium to the bones).

Dose: 2 capsules a day (400 mg calcium, 20 mg magnesium) with meals — 1 in the morning, 1 in the evening; splitting the dose improves absorption. 60 capsules = 1 month’s course; a 3-month course is recommended for bone health. Avoid taking at the same time as tea, coffee or spinach (oxalates reduce calcium absorption); leave a 2-hour gap from thyroid medication and antibiotics.

Not recommended in case of hypercalcaemia or calcium-based kidney stones. Leave a 2-hour gap from thyroid hormones, bisphosphonates and certain antibiotics. Not recommended for pregnant women without medical advice.

Is coral calcium better than calcium citrate?

Both forms are well absorbed. Coral calcium has the advantage of its complex mineral matrix (74+ trace elements) and alkalising nature; calcium citrate is better absorbed on an empty stomach. Our team can help you choose.

Does harvesting Sango coral harm reefs?

No. The Sango coral used comes from fossil land deposits formed millions of years ago — no living coral reef is affected.

What pairs well with Coraline for bone health?

Vitamin D3 (increases calcium absorption by 30–40%) and vitamin K2 MK-7 (directs calcium into bone and away from arteries) form the classic bone-support trio alongside Coraline.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.