Shark liver oil has been used for centuries by Scandinavian fishermen and coastal populations in Japan for its fortifying properties. Its distinctive feature is its richness in alkylglycerols (AKG), rare ether-lipids also found naturally in bone marrow, the spleen and human breast milk — a sign of their biological importance. AKG have been studied since the 1950s by Swedish researchers, notably Dr Astrid Brohult at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, whose pioneering work highlighted their role in supporting the immune system. Shark liver oil also contains squalene, a precursor of cholesterol and steroid hormones, plus omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and natural vitamin E.

Distriform’ offers a quality shark liver oil dosed at 500 mg per capsule with a guaranteed 20% alkylglycerol content (100 mg AKG per capsule): a generous dose reaching recommended intakes in just 2–4 capsules a day; natural vitamin E to protect the fatty acids from oxidation; 120 capsules per bottle, covering 30–60 days depending on dosage; and a fish-gelatin capsule shell — no bovine or porcine gelatin.

Alkylglycerols are natural components of the cell membranes of immune cells (macrophages, lymphocytes); supplementing with AKG helps support the production and activity of these cells. Squalene, another major component of shark liver oil, is a precursor of membrane cholesterol and contributes to immune-cell integrity — it is even used as an adjuvant in some vaccines to boost immune response. In winter, the combination of shark liver oil, vitamin D3 and zinc bisglycinate is a popular full immune-support protocol in our Paris shop.

Recommended dose: 2 to 4 capsules a day, with meals and a glass of water. Loading dose: 4 capsules a day for 2–4 weeks (2,000 mg oil, 400 mg AKG). Maintenance dose: 2 capsules a day (1,000 mg oil, 200 mg AKG). Suggested course: 1 to 3 months, particularly recommended from October to March. The 120-capsule bottle covers 30 days at the loading dose or 60 days at the maintenance dose.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose (4 capsules). Contains fish (fish gelatin and shark liver oil): not recommended in case of fish allergy. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice. If on anticoagulant treatment, consult a healthcare professional before use. Store in a cool, dry place, away from light.

What are alkylglycerols?

Ether-lipids naturally found in shark liver oil, bone marrow and human breast milk. Each Distriform’ capsule provides 100 mg of AKG, studied since the 1950s for their role in supporting natural defences.

How many capsules should I take per day?

2 to 4 capsules a day with meals. At 4 capsules a day, intake reaches 2,000 mg of shark liver oil and 400 mg of alkylglycerols. A 120-capsule bottle covers 30–60 days.

Is shark liver oil suitable for vegetarians?

No — it is an animal-derived product and the capsule shell is fish gelatin. It contains fish and is not recommended in case of fish allergy.

How does shark liver oil differ from cod liver oil?

Cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D and omega-3s but contains no alkylglycerols. Shark liver oil is the most concentrated natural source of alkylglycerols and squalene — the two oils have complementary but very different compositions.

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.