We know that there are a lot of different mushroom products out there on the market from tinctures to capsules, powders to gummies. So how do we know what form of mushrooms is best to take? Let’s go through a little bit about each type and and the pros and cons for both.
Tinctures:
Tinctures are a popular method for ingesting functional mushrooms, and are in a liquid form. Traditionally tinctures are produced through an alcohol extraction process, which while effective for herbs, falls short for mushrooms due to their key components like beta-glucans being water-soluble. This method also misses out on the dietary fiber found in mushrooms. Alternatively, water extraction used in the preliminary stages of powder creation offers a workaround, making nutrients more bioavailable though less concentrated than in powder form.
Pros:
Convenience: Tinctures are easy to use and carry around, making them a great option for those with a busy lifestyle.
Fast Absorption: The liquid form allows for quicker absorption into the bloodstream compared to solids, potentially offering faster effects.
Long Shelf Life: Alcohol-based tinctures have a long shelf life, maintaining their potency over time.
Cons:
Alcohol Content: The alcohol base may not be suitable for everyone, including those avoiding alcohol for health, personal, or religious reasons.
Limited Extraction: Alcohol extraction may not fully capture water-soluble compounds, such as beta-glucans, which are crucial for the full spectrum of benefits.
Taste: Some people may find the taste of tinctures off-putting, which can be a barrier to consistent use.
Lower Fiber Content: The process of making tinctures usually removes most of the dietary fiber found in mushrooms.
Extract Powders:
Mushroom powders have the ability to retain beta-glucans. These polysaccharides are known for their immune-boosting properties, as well as their potential to lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar levels, and enhance gut health. Unlike tinctures, which can't break down chitin due to the alcohol used, powders made through hot water extraction effectively release and preserve these immune-supporting compounds. This process not only ensures the bioavailability of beta-glucans but also maximizes the benefits of mushrooms, making powders a more potent choice for health benefits
Pros:
Nutrient Density: Powder forms concentrate the mushrooms' beneficial compounds, offering a higher nutrient density.
Full Spectrum Benefits: Hot water extraction used in powders is more effective at extracting both water- and fat-soluble compounds, ensuring a broader range of benefits.
Versatility in Use: Powders can be mixed into liquids, smoothies, or even foods, making them incredibly versatile.
Dietary Fibre: The process of making mushroom powders preserves the dietary fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health and immune function.
Cons:
Taste and Texture: Some may find the taste or texture of mushroom powders less appealing, which can affect consistency in use.
Portability: While still relatively easy to carry, powders can be messier and less convenient than tinctures when on the go.
Shelf-life: Although the shelf life is still 3-5 years, powders generally have a shorter shelf life than tincture forms.
Our Choice
We believe mushroom extract powders offer the most potent form of consumption. After weighing the options, extract powders emerged as the clear choice for us. They not only offer a higher nutrient density but also ensure the bioavailability of those nutrients. While tinctures have their place they often fall short in delivering the benefits we seek.