How are mushroom extracts... extracted?
We know that mushrooms contain amazing compounds, but how do people actually get them out of the mushroom and into the bottle?
7/4/20232 min read
Mushroom extracts are typically made through a process that involves extracting the beneficial compounds from mushrooms and concentrating them into a more potent form. The specific extraction methods can vary depending on the type of mushroom and the desired compounds to be extracted. Here are some common techniques used to make mushroom extracts:
1. Hot Water Extraction: This is one of the most common methods for extracting mushroom compounds. Dried mushrooms are simmered or boiled in hot water for an extended period. The water extracts the water-soluble compounds, such as polysaccharides and other bioactive molecules. The resulting liquid is then filtered and concentrated through evaporation or freeze-drying to create a powdered extract.
2. Ethanol Extraction: In this method, dried mushrooms are soaked or macerated in ethanol (high-grade alcohol) to extract both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds. The mixture is then filtered, and the alcohol is evaporated under controlled conditions to obtain a concentrated extract.
3. Dual Extraction: Some mushroom extracts require a combination of hot water and ethanol extraction to capture both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds effectively. This method involves initially extracting the mushrooms with hot water and then using the resulting water extract to soak or macerate the mushrooms in ethanol. The combined extracts are then filtered and concentrated.
4. Super-critical CO2 Extraction: This method utilizes carbon dioxide (CO2) under high pressure and temperature to extract the desired compounds from mushrooms. This process is often used for extracting delicate and heat-sensitive compounds. The CO2 acts as a solvent and is passed through the mushrooms, extracting the desired constituents. The CO2 is then evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated extract.
5. Dual Solvent Extraction: This method combines the use of water and a non-polar solvent (such as hexane or petroleum ether) to extract a broader range of compounds from mushrooms. The water extracts water-soluble compounds, while the non-polar solvent extracts lipid-soluble compounds. The two extracts are then combined, and the solvents are evaporated to obtain the final extract.
After the extraction process, the resulting mushroom extract is often further processed to create a more concentrated form, such as a powder or liquid extract. This can involve techniques like spray-drying, freeze-drying, or filtration. The final product is then typically standardized to ensure consistent levels of bioactive compounds.
It's important to note that the specific extraction method can influence the profile and potency of the resulting mushroom extract. Different methods may yield extracts with varying concentrations of active compounds, and each method may be more suitable for extracting specific compounds from different mushrooms.
