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An overhead shot of dried lion's mane mushroom in a light hand.
Nico

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Additional Time 56 days
Total Time 56 days 15 minutes
Servings: 1 bottle
Course: Tinctures
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • 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. - I use these
  • Small saucepan
  • Small amber glass bottles with dropper tops - I use these
  • A fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter - I like this unbleached cheesecloth
  • A small funnel
  • A food processor, coffee grinder, or knife – for grinding or chopping up the mushroom (if you’re not using powdered mushrooms)

Method
 

  1. 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
    1. Use a knife, food processor, or coffee grinder to chop the mushroom into small pieces. 
    2. 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. 
    3. Cover the mushrooms with 80-proof alcohol (I use unflavoured vodka). 
    4. Add a lid to the jar and shake it so that the alcohol completely covers the mushrooms.
    5. 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.
    6. After 8 weeks, strain the mushroom material through cheesecloth or a mesh strainer into your clean glass storage container. 
    7. Set the tincture in a cool, dark place for future use.
    Step 2 – hot water extraction
    1. Use a coffee grinder, knife, or food processor to chop up the other half of the mushrooms.
    2. 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. 
    3. Add a lid to the pan and bring the water to a slow simmer. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 hours. 
    4. You can top up your water if needed.
    5. After 3-4 hours, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool slightly.
    6. Strain off the liquid using cheesecloth or a mesh strainer.
    7. 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.
    8. Finally add the blended tincture into an amber dropper bottle, label and date it, and store in a cool, dark place.

    Video

    Notes

    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.

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