Mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health benefits. With the increasing popularity of medicinal mushrooms in the modern wellness industry, many people are now exploring the benefits of mushroom extracts and mushroom powders. While both products are derived from mushrooms, they differ in terms of their processing methods, potency, and efficacy. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between mushroom extracts and mushroom powders, the quality differences, and who might choose to use each.
Mushroom Extracts
A Mushroom extract is a concentrated liquid or powder made from the fruiting body, mycelium, or spores of mushrooms. It is typically obtained through a process of hot water, alcohol or dual extraction, which involves boiling or soaking the mushrooms to extract their beneficial compounds. Mushroom extracts can be made from a variety of different mushroom species, each with its own unique properties and health benefits.Mushroom Powders
Mushroom powders are often used as a flavour enhancer in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. It has a savoury, umami-rich flavour that can help to add depth and complexity to a dish.
What are the key differences between Mushroom Powders and Mushroom Extracts
Potency
One of the primary differences between mushroom extracts and mushroom powders is their potency. Mushroom extracts are more potent than mushroom powders because they are highly concentrated formulations that contain a higher concentration of the active compounds found in mushrooms. These active compounds include beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to have numerous health benefits.
To understand why mushroom extracts are more potent, we need to look at the process of making them. One aspect is the volume of mushroom required. To produce mushroom extracts, a large amount of raw material is required. For example, to produce 1kg of mushroom extract, we use 15kg of raw material (mushrooms).
The extraction process typically involves several steps, including soaking, heating, and evaporating the solvent to leave behind a concentrated extract. The resulting extract is highly potent and contains a much higher concentration of the active compounds found in the original mushroom than the raw material or mushroom powder.