How To Make Mushroom Tinctures (Strong Medicinal Extracts)

Tincturing mushrooms is a great way to extract and preserve the beneficial compounds in medicinal mushrooms. Using the dual extraction method you can unlock the full range of bioactive compounds in the mushrooms. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for how to make mushroom tinctures.

Mushrooms seem to offer an endless range of health benefits (to both us humans and to our planet’s biodiversity!). I’ve tinctured quite a few mushrooms at this point and am always amazed to learn how much scientific research is ongoing about certain mushrooms’ ability to fight cancer, boost our brain function, and more. 

Why tincture mushrooms

Tincturing mushrooms is my favourite way to enjoy most medicinal mushrooms because it’s a cost-effective, simple, and convenient way to consume the mushroom.

Extended shelf life – Tincturing helps preserve mushrooms for months or even years, which means that you can access their benefits over an extended time.

Concentrated extract – Tinctures provide a concentrated form of mushrooms which means that with only a small dosage you can access the benefits of the mushrooms.

Convenience – Liquid tinctures are portable, easy to store, and can be quickly added to beverages and foods, or taken directly.

Enhanced absorption –  The alcohol in tinctures enhances the absorption of certain beneficial compounds when consumed.

Versatility – Tinctures can be incorporated into teas, smoothies, soups, or taken under the tongue for faster effects.

Cost-effective – Making your own tincture at home is much more affordable than buying pre-made tinctures!

Mushroom tincture benefits

Mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds like polysaccharides, triterpenes, and beta-glucans, which support the body’s immune system, reduce inflammation, and have overall adaptogenic properties. Each mushroom has specific benefits of its own and here are some highlights:

Reishi mushroom – Reishis are very immune supportive, can help manage stress, and help with overall stress management. They are a staple in traditional Chinese medicine and some studies suggest that Reishis may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments. Here’s a full recipe of how to make reishi tincture.

Lion’s mane mushroom – Lion’s mane is most known for its ability to help with focus, memory, and overall cognitive function. Here’s a full recipe to make lion’s mane tincture.

Chaga mushroom – Packed with antioxidants, chaga can help combat inflammation, help with stress management, and support the immune system. Here’s a full recipe for chaga tincture.

Turkey tail mushrooms –  Turkey tails have powerful immune-boosting properties and are also great for supporting gut health. Here’s a full recipe for making turkey tail tincture.

Why the dual extraction method

The dual extraction method simply means that you extract medicinal compounds from the mushrooms twice: once using hot water and once using alcohol. We do this because some of the medicinal compounds in mushrooms cannot be well-extracted using only alcohol or only hot water. 

• Alcohol-soluble compounds – Certain compounds, like alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils, are soluble in alcohol but not in water.
• Water-soluble compounds – Other compounds, such as polysaccharides, tannins, and vitamins, are water-soluble but not soluble in alcohol.

The dual extraction ensures that both types of compounds are extracted, creating a more complete and effective tincture.

Sourcing mushrooms

I highly recommend looking for a mushroom source that’s local to you. With the broader public’s increasing interest in mushrooms for medicinal purposes there is an unfortunately growingly exploitative industry of mushroom harvesting. There is detrimental overharvesting of chaga mushrooms for example, and other mushrooms may experience similar pressures.

The mushrooms you can find easily online are usually sold in a powdered form which means that the mushrooms had been exposed to that additional level of processing and packaging before being shipped to you. You cannot verify powdered mushrooms visually and you cannot judge the quality of the product after it has been powdered.

Make sure to search online for a mushroom source closer to where you live before buying on Amazon. I cannot find certain types of mushrooms local to me so I’ve bought them powdered on Amazon but would always recommend you buy yours locally to avoid unintentionally contributing to overharvesting or spending your money on an inferior product.

Fresh, dried, or powdered mushrooms

I prefer to use and recommend that you use dried mushrooms to make tinctures. This is because fresh mushrooms have a large amount of water content which can cause your tincture to spoil more quickly. If you use fresh mushrooms, I recommend that you use higher-proof alcohol (over 80-proof) to help offset the additional water content.

I’ve also used mushroom powders to make tinctures but find it difficult to fully strain them off. Here are some pros and cons of using dried versus powdered mushrooms.

Dried mushrooms

Pros

Easier quality control – Whole dried mushrooms make it easier to verify species, quality, and freshness.

Preservation of compounds – Minimal processing reduces oxidation and degradation of beneficial compounds in the mushrooms. 

Customisable – You can chop the mushrooms up to your preferred size instead of having to try to strain off a fine powder.

Less filtration needed – Tinctures made with dried mushrooms are much easier to strain off.

Cons

Lower extraction efficiency – Whole or chopped mushrooms have less surface area exposed to the alcohol when steeping so tinctures made with dried whole mushrooms may be less potent. (This is something I’m willing to accept to avoid having to try to strain off powders!)

Time-consuming – Requires slicing or breaking the mushrooms into smaller pieces manually before tincturing them.

Longer extraction time – The smaller surface area means it may take longer for solvents to extract the active compounds fully.

Powdered mushrooms

Pros

Maximised extraction – Fine powder increases the surface area which leads to a more effective extraction and stronger final tincture.

Convenience – Ready to use immediately, with no need to chop or prepare the mushrooms.

Faster extraction – The high surface area means solvents (alcohol or water) work more quickly.

Cons

Difficult to verify quality – Powdered form makes it harder to confirm species or ensure there are no fillers or contaminants.

Higher risk of oxidation – The processing required to create powder can expose the mushroom’s beneficial compounds to air, light, and heat, potentially degrading their potency.

Hard to fully strain off – Fine powders can create sediment, requiring additional filtering for a clear final tincture.

How to make mushroom tinctures

Making a mushroom tincture involves two steps: first, an alcohol extraction and then a hot water extraction. Follow this step-by-step guide to help ensure that you gain the full spectrum of beneficial compounds in your tincture.

Tools

• An airtight container with a tight-fitting lid – I use a glass mason jar with parchment paper between the metal lid and tincture or extraction to prevent the alcohol from corroding the metal.
• Small saucepan
• Small amber glass bottles with dropper tops – I like these
• A fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter
• A small funnel
• A food processor, coffee grinder, or knife – for grinding or chopping up the mushroom (if you’re not using powdered mushrooms)

Supplies

• Dried or powdered mushrooms (I like reishi, organic lion’s mane, chaga, or organic turkey tail mushrooms)
• 80-proof vodka (or high-proof alcohol for fresh mushrooms to prevent spoilage) For a non-alcoholic option, you can use apple cider vinegar ( I use this bulk raw source) or food-grade glycerin
• Water for the hot water-based extractions

Instructions

To begin the extraction process, divide the mushrooms into two equal parts. We will use one half for the hot water extraction and the other half for the alcohol extraction.

Dual Extraction Method

Step 1 – alcohol extraction

Use a knife, food processor, or coffee grinder to chop the mushroom into small pieces. 

Add the powdered or chopped dried mushroom into a clean glass jar. Fill the jar about ⅓ of the way full if you’re using dried mushrooms and ¾ full if you’re using powdered. 

Cover the mushrooms with 80-proof alcohol (I use unflavoured vodka). 

Add a lid to the jar and shake it so that the alcohol completely covers the mushrooms.

Leave the jar in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight for 8 weeks. Shake it occasionally (a few times a week) to ensure all parts of the mushroom remain covered in alcohol. If you used dried mushrooms, make sure to top up the jar after a few days once the mushrooms absorb some of the alcohol.

After 8 weeks, strain the mushroom material through cheesecloth or a mesh strainer into your clean glass storage container. 

Set the tincture in a cool, dark place for future use.

Step 2 – hot water extraction

Use a coffee grinder, knife, or food processor to chop up the other half of the mushrooms.

Add the chopped mushroom to a saucepan and add double the amount of water you want to end up with. We will be combining equal parts alcohol tincture and water extraction so you will want to end up with enough water extraction to fill half of your final bottle. For example – I was using a pint jar to store my final tincture so I added a full pint of water to my saucepan. 

Add a lid to the pan and bring the water to a slow simmer. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 hours. 

You can top up your water if needed.

After 3-4 hours, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool slightly.

Strain off the liquid using cheesecloth or a mesh strainer.

Then pour the mushroom extract into the alcohol tincture you had set aside. You can use a whisk or fork to blend the two liquids.

Finally add the blended tincture into an amber dropper bottle, label and date it, and store in a cool, dark place.

How much mushroom tincture to use

The amount varies depending on the type of mushroom and individual needs. Make sure to consult a doctor or healthcare practitioner before beginning to take a mushroom tincture. A common starting dose is 1-2 droppers full daily. You can adjust the amount gradually based on your body’s response and desired effects.

How long does the tincture last?

An alcohol-based tincture will last for several years if stored in a cool, dark place. Vinegar-based tinctures should be consumed within six months, while glycerin-based tinctures last up to a year.

How to use the tincture

Directly – Place a dropper full under your tongue for quick absorption.

Diluted – Add a dropper full to water, tea, or juice.

How to make this without alcohol

You can simply swap the alcohol for store-bought apple cider vinegar or food-grade glycerin. Vinegar and glycerin aren’t as good as alcohol at extracting the beneficial compounds in mushrooms or preserving them. I like to consume vinegar-based extracts within about 6 months and glycerin-based extracts within a year.

That’s it! I hope you love making your own homemade mushroom tinctures.

Disclaimer – I’m not a medical professional and do not intend to offer medical or health advice in any content I create. I offer information for educational purposes and, as always, get your physician’s advice or the advice of your health care provider before trying a new herbal remedy. There are always possible unintended consequences of trying a new herbal remedy such as an allergic reaction or unexpected side effects like interactions with other medication. 

What to read next

Easy Reishi Mushroom Recipes (Drinks, Tinctures & Tips)

How To Make Alcohol-Free Tinctures And Extracts

Turkey Tail Tincture (Good For The Immune System)

How To Make Lion’s Mane Tincture (Good For Your Brain)

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