Tincture Strength: What Does 'Strong' Actually Mean?

“Strong”, “potent” and “extra strength” appear on many tinctures and extracts. “Strength” is one of the most used, and least defined, words in mushroom marketing. This article explains what it can and can’t mean, and how to compare products fairly.

What “strong” can mean

• Extract ratio: more starting material per millilitre, such as 1:2 rather than 1:5. See Understanding Mushroom Extract Ratios.
• Compound content: how much of a measured compound, such as beta-glucans, is present, if the product has been tested.
• Alcohol strength: sometimes confused with extract strength, but a different thing entirely.
• Nothing specific: sometimes it’s just a word on the label.

Ratio isn’t content

A more concentrated extract isn’t necessarily richer in the compounds you’re interested in. That depends on the starting material and the method. Only testing shows content. See Beta-Glucan Testing Explained.

Starting material matters

A highly concentrated extract of grain-grown mycelium can still be largely grain. See Mycelium on Grain Explained.

What “strong” can’t mean

• That the starting material was good.
• That it contains more of any particular compound, unless tested.
• That it will have a stronger effect. Be wary of products that imply otherwise.

Serving size matters

A more concentrated tincture taken in a smaller serving may deliver a similar amount of mushroom as a weaker one taken in a larger serving. Compare the amount per daily serving, not just the ratio.

How to compare fairly

• Compare ratios only between similar products.
• Check the part used and the extraction method.
• Look for tested figures, with the testing method stated.
• Compare the amount per daily serving.

See How to Choose a Mushroom Extract. Each Spore & Bloom tincture shows its extract ratio on the label.