Mushrooms are not only a delicious food but have also been used for centuries for medicine. Reishi (Ganoderma l.), Turkey Tail (Trametes v.), and Cordcyceps are some of the most commonly used mushrooms for medicinal purposes. Most of the mushrooms used have anti-cancer, anti-tumor, and immune boosting properties. There is still a lot of research that needs to be done about the use of mushrooms for medicine. Although, there is some solid research being done, a lot of the information until now has been anecdotal.
One of the main molecules to have medicinal properties are polysaccharides. These polysaccharides must be extracted through hot water. Another molecule group that is beneficial are triterpenes and these must be extracted through alcohol. This means that polysaccharides are water-soluble (able to be extracted by water) and the triterpenes are alcohol-soluble (able to be extracted by alcohol).
When preparing the extract, please make sure to work in a clean environment and use clean supplies. The extract at the end of the procedure should not contain less than 20% alcohol and no more than 40%.
Ingredients:
Any medicinal mushroom
Water
Alcohol
Muslin
Airtight Jar
For the hot water extraction:
Break apart mushrooms if possible.
Cover mushrooms with water.
Bring water to a light simmer.
Simmer for 2-3 hours. (You can also use a crock pot set on low overnight).
Strain mushrooms, set water aside and transfer the mushrooms into a separate bowl.
For alcohol extraction:
Take strained mushrooms and add them to at least 40% alcohol.
For every 1 part of mushrooms, add 4-5 parts alcohol.
Keep this concoction in an airtight container in a dark cool place for at least two weeks.
Remember to shake the solution everyday.
After two weeks, strain the mixture through muslin or cheesecloth.
Combine this liquid with your hot water concoction.
If using 40% alcohol, add equal amounts of the water extraction and alcohol (1 part water to 1 part alcohol).
This will make the final tincture contain 20% alcohol.
Dosage
Three dropper fulls (2-3x a day)
If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave a comment or email me.
Related links:
Research paper on medicinal mushrooms
NAMA (North American Mycological Association) article on medicinal mushrooms
dirt and diy 