What is double extraction? How is the active ingredients affected?
Functional mushrooms such as Reishi, Chaga, Lion's Mane and Cordyceps contain a variety of nutrients that can support the body's health. However, in order for the body to benefit from the substances, they must first be made available.
In this guide we will go through:
- The most common extraction methods
- What compounds are released?
- Advantages and disadvantages of each method
- How it affects absorption in the body
Why is extraction necessary?
The cell walls of fungi consist of chitin , which is the supporting part of the cell walls of fungi. Chitin is a hard and indigestible substance, but it helps form the structures of fungi where the most valuable nutrients are encapsulated.
What are the fungal cell walls made of and how are the substances released?
The fungal cell wall is a robust structure consisting primarily of chitin and β-glucans , with elements of mannoproteins , and bioactive compounds such as phenols , sterols .
- Chitin functions as a kind of skeleton – a tough and indigestible substance that makes the cell wall strong and impenetrable.
- β-glucans form a softer network around the chitin and are important immunomodulatory polysaccharides.
- Other compounds such as triterpenes and phenols are found either bound to the cell wall network or stored inside the fungal cell .
In order for these substances to become available, the cell wall must be broken down . This is done through extraction.
Overview of extraction methods
Water-based extraction
A traditional method that uses heat to extract water-soluble compounds.
Bioactive compounds released:
• Beta-glucans (polysaccharides)
Advantages:
• Effective for immune-boosting beta-glucans
• Traditional method with a long history
Disadvantages:
• Does not contain fat-soluble compounds
Alcohol extraction
Used to extract fat-soluble compounds that are not released in water.
Bioactive compounds released:
• Triterpenes, sterols, phenols
Advantages:
• Important for adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory substances
• Essential for Reishi and Chaga
• Can provide concentrated effect
Disadvantages:
• Does not release polysaccharides
• Alcohol content often needs to be regulated
Double extract (water and alcohol)
A combined method that provides a full-spectrum extract with both water- and fat-soluble compounds. Considered the most complete form of mushroom-based supplement.
Bioactive compounds released:
• Both water- and fat-soluble substances: beta-glucans, triterpenes, etc.
Advantages:
• Full spectrum – you get the full benefits of the mushroom
• Often considered the “gold standard” in extracts
• Good bioavailability
Disadvantages:
• Time and resource consuming
• More expensive production process
Supercritical CO₂ extraction
A high-tech method that uses pressurized carbon dioxide to extract fat-soluble substances without the use of solvents. Most commonly used in pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications.
Bioactive compounds released:
• Fat-soluble substances such as triterpenes and sterols
Advantages:
• Solvent-free, environmentally friendly
• Precise control provides consistent extracts
Disadvantages:
• Not suitable for polysaccharides
• Requires special equipment and high expertise
How does the extraction method affect absorption in the body?
Bioavailability is about how well the body can absorb and use the active ingredients. This is directly affected by the extraction method used.
- Water-soluble compounds (e.g. beta-glucans) are more easily absorbed if they are extracted correctly.
- Fat-soluble compounds (e.g. triterpenes) require alcohol or CO₂ to become available.
- Liquid extracts and tinctures are quickly absorbed via mucous membranes.
- Capsules and powders take longer and may have lower absorption if the extract is not processed properly.
What should you look for in a mushroom supplement?
✅ Double-extracted
✅ Stated ratio (e.g. 10:1)
✅ Measured content of beta-glucans and/or triterpenes
✅ Clear distinction between fruiting body and mycelium
✅ Open information about origin and process
Sopplement's view on extraction
Sopplement collaborates with a small family business that produces extracts from organically and sustainably grown mushrooms. The extracts are tested for nutritional content, microbiology and heavy metals by a third party in an official European database.
All are double extracted which you now know what that means!
Conclusion
Extraction is the key to getting the most out of functional mushrooms. Without a good process, you won't get access to the active ingredients that make the mushrooms so valuable.
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