Key takeaways
- Alcohol preserves tinctures; the best-before date is on the label.
- Store closed, cool, dry and out of direct sunlight.
- Sediment is normal in natural extracts: shake before use.
- Discard after the best-before date or if anything seems wrong.
How long does a mushroom tincture keep, and how should you store it? This practical guide covers shelf life and storage.
Shelf life
The alcohol in a tincture preserves it, so tinctures generally keep well. The best-before date is printed on the label. Powders keep well too if kept dry, but can absorb moisture once opened.
How to store tinctures
- Keep the cap closed tightly after use.
- Keep it cool and dry, away from heat sources.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight. Amber glass helps protect the contents, but a cupboard is better still.
- Keep the dropper clean, and avoid touching it to your mouth.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
Sediment and cloudiness
Natural extracts can form sediment as some compounds settle out, particularly in dual extracts. This is normal. Shake the bottle well before each use. See Dual Extraction Explained.
When to discard
Discard a tincture after its best-before date, or earlier if it smells unusual, shows mould or has been contaminated.
Storing powders
Keep powders sealed, dry and away from humidity. Clumping suggests moisture has got in.
For more, see What Is a Mushroom Tincture?