Chaga-derived phenolic extract as a natural household antiseptic
Water-based phenolic extracts from Chaga obtained through a novel pressurized alkaline extraction process, enriched with antimicrobial benzoates and cinnamates. The technology targets household cleaning applications, offering a natural alternative to conventional chemical antiseptics at low concentrations.
Overview
This project focuses on developing a natural, water-based antiseptic derived from Chaga mushroom extracts. Using a novel pressurized extraction process under alkaline conditions, the resulting extract is enriched with phenolic compounds, specifically benzoates and cinnamates, which are known for their potent antimicrobial properties. The goal is to validate this extract as an effective, low-concentration natural antiseptic suitable for household cleaning applications, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemical cleaners.
The research addresses growing consumer demand for natural, non-toxic cleaning products. By leveraging bioactive compounds from a well-characterized fungal source, the technology aims to deliver broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria, yeast, fungi, and viruses in practical household settings.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Novel pressurized extraction process performed under alkaline pH conditions
- Phenolic-enriched extract containing benzoates and cinnamates with demonstrated antimicrobial activity
- Water-based formulation suitable for household cleaning applications
- Effective at low concentrations, reducing material costs and environmental impact
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential against bacteria, yeast, fungi, and viruses
Research methodology:
- Dose-response testing to determine minimum effective concentrations
- Germ kill rate assessments across multiple microbial targets
- Evaluation of practical application modes for household use
- Industry-relevant microbial target selection in collaboration with partners
Technology readiness level
The extraction process has been developed and preliminary observations confirm the extract is enriched with antimicrobial phenolic compounds. However, the hypothesis has not yet been validated. The research team is seeking funding and partnership support to conduct comprehensive antimicrobial testing, including effective dose determination, germ kill rate analysis, and application mode evaluation. This positions the technology at an early-stage proof-of-concept phase, with significant validation work required before commercial readiness. The team is actively seeking industry partners to co-develop dosing protocols and identify commercially relevant microbial targets for testing.
About Western University
Western University is a comprehensive public research university in London, Ontario, with a full spectrum of professional and research programs and a strong culture of partnership with industry. Companies engage through co-located labs and shared core facilities, a research and technology park with industry tenancy, and advanced prototyping testbeds that enable scale-up. Integration with major hospital systems and affiliated research institutes supports clinical translation and trials, while co-op and internship pathways provide reliable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive funding from NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and a dedicated technology transfer office offers IP strategy, licensing, and startup support.
delivered to your inbox.