Quatrefolic is a patented folate form developed by Gnosis S.p.A. Unlike the synthetic folic acid in most supplements, Quatrefolic directly supplies 5-MTHF, the biologically active form of vitamin B9. Standard folic acid requires several enzymatic conversion steps involving the MTHFR gene, which can be limited in around 40% of the European population carrying a related gene variant. Quatrefolic bypasses this limitation entirely by providing the final, directly absorbable form.

Vitamin B9 contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy, normal immune function, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and normal amino acid metabolism. It also contributes to normal blood formation and normal nucleic acid synthesis. Folate supplementation is particularly important for women of childbearing age, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and anyone wanting to support nervous and energy balance.

Folic acid must be converted to 5-MTHF via an enzymatic chain involving the MTHFR enzyme — reduced in roughly 40% of the population, potentially leading to unmetabolised folic acid build-up in the blood and a functional active-folate deficit despite supplementation. Quatrefolic solves this by directly supplying the final active form, immediately usable by cells with no prior conversion — a superiority demonstrated in several clinical studies comparing plasma folate levels.

Take 1 to 2 capsules a day with a glass of water, preferably with a meal. For women planning pregnancy or pregnant, 400µg/day (2 capsules) is generally recommended, up to 600µg on medical advice. For general fatigue or cognitive support, 1 capsule (200µg) is suitable. A 60-capsule bottle covers 1–2 months.

Does not replace a varied, balanced diet or healthy lifestyle. If pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication or under medical care, consult a healthcare professional before supplementing. Being water-soluble, excess is naturally eliminated in urine. Unlike synthetic folic acid, Quatrefolic doesn’t mask a possible B12 deficiency. Store in a dry place away from heat and light, out of reach of young children.

Why Quatrefolic over standard folic acid?

Folic acid needs multi-step conversion dependent on the MTHFR enzyme, reduced in about 40% of people. Quatrefolic supplies the final active form directly, guaranteeing immediate assimilation regardless of genetic profile.

What are signs of increased B9 needs?

Unusual fatigue, poor concentration, mood instability or lowered natural defences can signal insufficient folate intake; pregnant women and those planning pregnancy have especially high needs.

Is Quatrefolic suitable during pregnancy?

Folate supplementation is recommended from pregnancy planning through the first trimester; Quatrefolic avoids the unmetabolised folic acid build-up risk seen with the synthetic form, but consulting a healthcare professional for the right dose remains essential.

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.