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About Our Research
Are you affiliated with any brands?
No. We don’t accept sponsorships, affiliate commissions, or payments from any mushroom extract companies. This is pure consumer research.
How do you make money?
We don’t. This is a consumer education project, not a business.
Why should we trust your analysis?
What’s the difference between alcohol and water extraction?
Alcohol extraction dissolves different compounds than water extraction. Some brands use both (dual extraction), while others use only one method. Alcohol-free extracts appeal to people avoiding alcohol for health, religious, or recovery reasons.
Not necessarily. It depends on what compounds you’re targeting and your personal preferences. Different extraction methods preserve different beneficial compounds. **What does “dual extraction” mean?
Dual extraction uses both alcohol and water to extract different compounds. However, most brands don’t fully remove the alcohol afterward, leaving 30-45% alcohol content in the final product.
Testing & Safety
Why does pesticide testing matter?
Most mushroom mycelium is grown on grain substrates that may contain pesticide residues. These can end up in your extract. Only a few brands conduct independent pesticide testing.
What’s wrong with self-signed COAs?
Self-signed Certificates of Analysis come from the same lab that manufactured the product—a conflict of interest. Third-party testing uses independent labs with no financial ties to the brand.
Why don’t you focus on beta-glucan content?
The standard beta-glucan test was designed for testing starches in oats, not liquid mushroom extracts. It’s not AOAC-accredited for this application and can produce misleading results.
Our Comparison Tables
How do you rate products?
We evaluate based on extraction method, alcohol-free availability, third-party testing, pesticide testing documentation, and price per ounce. We analyze what brands publicly disclose—we don’t personally test products yet.
How often do you update the tables?
Can brands pay to be included?
Never. Ratings are based solely on disclosed testing, extraction methods, and transparency.
Do you test products yourself?
Product Selection
Which brand is best for beginners?
North Spore ($12.50/oz) offers good value with documented testing. For alcohol-free options, Auri ($16/oz) is a solid mid-range choice.
Why is Ahara rated highly despite the higher price?
Ahara is one of only three brands offering both alcohol-free extraction AND documented pesticide testing through independent labs. Few alternatives exist for consumers prioritizing clean, alcohol-free extracts.
Which is better – Lion’s Mane or Reishi?
Different purposes. Lion’s Mane: focus and cognitive support (morning). Reishi: sleep and stress reduction (evening). Many people use both.
How much should I take?
Follow your product’s label. Typical ranges are 1-2 dropperfuls (1-2ml) daily.
Are there side effects?