Wild-Harvested Shikimic Acid from Alabama

Sweet gum balls are one of nature's richest sources of shikimic acid, a plant compound the pharmaceutical industry has used as a starting material for antiviral drugs for decades. We wild-harvest them by hand from trees on and around our farm in Opp, Alabama, then slow-extract in small batches.

This isn't a supplement trend. Folks have used sweet gum in traditional medicine for centuries. We've been working with it since 2011.

How to Choose

  • Sweet Gum Ball Extract → wild-harvested from our Alabama land, our flagship shikimic acid tincture
  • Star Anise Extract → the original commercial source, slow-extracted here on the farm

Learn about the sweet gum tree and shikimic acid →

Wild harvested sweet gum ball extract shikimic acid tincture from Mayim Farm Alabama
 
Star anise extract shikimic acid tincture from Mayim Farm Alabama
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is shikimic acid?

Shikimic acid is a naturally occurring plant compound that serves as the primary starting material in the synthesis of Tamiflu (oseltamivir). It occurs in high concentrations in green sweet gum balls and star anise.

Where do you harvest your sweet gum balls?

We wild-harvest from trees on and surrounding our farm in Opp, Alabama. Sweet gum is abundant across the southeastern United States and grows naturally on our land.

Is this the same as Tamiflu?

No. Tamiflu is a lab-made drug built from shikimic acid as a starting material. Our extract is a whole-plant tincture made from sweet gum balls. It is not a drug, and we make no medical claims.

How do I use the extract?

Take 1 to 2 dropperfuls in water up to three times daily. Shake well before use. Store at room temperature away from light.

Is sweet gum extract safe?

Sweet gum has a long history of traditional use. As with any herbal supplement, talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications.