Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) isn’t a mushroom in the classic sense — it’s a conk, a black, irregular woody growth found mainly on birch trees in cold regions of the northern hemisphere: Finland, Russia, Siberia, northern Canada and Alaska. Chaga parasitises birch trees for 10-20 years, drawing nutrients from the tree and building up an exceptional concentration of bioactive compounds.

Its black outer surface is rich in melanin, a pigment rare in the fungal world, while the orange-brown interior concentrates the polyphenols, triterpenoids and polysaccharides that give this mushroom its reputation; the wild Finnish Chaga used by SIHO is considered among the richest in active compounds, thanks to the extreme climate conditions it grows in.

Chaga contains a remarkable diversity of bioactive molecules, including beta-glucan polysaccharides, known for their action on the immune system as soluble fibres that interact with immune cell receptors; polyphenols, present in many plants but at particularly high concentration in this fungus; betulinic acid and betulin, derived from birch bark and concentrated by Chaga; and superoxide dismutase (SOD), a naturally occurring antioxidant enzyme. Chaga’s ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score is among the highest of any natural food.

Extraction is a decisive step for mushroom supplement quality, since fungal cell walls are made of chitin, a resistant polymer the human digestive system can’t break down efficiently — without extraction, much of the active content stays locked inside these walls. SIHO uses a double extraction process combining hot water and ultrasound: hot water releases water-soluble polysaccharides like beta-glucans, while ultrasound breaks down cell structures to release non-water-soluble compounds like triterpenoids, together yielding a full-spectrum extract.

Take 2 capsules a day, ideally in the morning with a large glass of water. Chaga contains no caffeine but can support natural energy, which is why a morning dose is preferred over evening. A course of 2-3 months is generally recommended for deeper effects; a 60-capsule box covers 30 days at the recommended dose, and the course can be repeated several times a year, particularly at seasonal changes.

For adult use only. A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. People with diabetes on treatment should consult their doctor before use due to Chaga’s potential effect on blood sugar; it may also interact with anticoagulants. If pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication, seek advice from a healthcare professional. Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

What is the difference between Chaga powder and Chaga extract?

Raw Chaga powder is simply ground, with no prior extraction, so most active compounds stay trapped in the chitin cell walls and remain poorly bioavailable. An extract, like SIHO’s (hot water and ultrasound), releases the active compounds and makes them absorbable by the body — significantly more effective than raw powder at an equal weight.

Does Chaga contain caffeine?

No, Chaga contains no caffeine. Its effect on vitality comes from other mechanisms, particularly supporting energy metabolism and its richness in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative-stress-related fatigue; it can be used by people sensitive to caffeine without risk of overstimulation or sleep disruption.

Is SIHO Chaga suitable for vegans?

Yes. The capsules are plant-based HPMC and the extract is 100% plant-derived. The product contains no animal-derived ingredients and suits vegetarian and vegan diets.

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.