Why UAE?

...and other Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Ultra-Sonic Assisted Extraction (UAE) so important?

Mushrooms contain “good stuff”, such as beta-glucans, poly-sachharides, minerals, nutrients….. Unfortunately, though, mushrooms are also comprised of chitin, a fibrous substance that makes absorbing the “good stuff”—-AKA Compounds of Interest (COI), from absorbing into the gut and intestines. This is why it is important to extract the COIs from the substance.

There are numerous methods of extraction: cooking, pickling, hot water, alcohol, etc. However, these techniques either degrade COIs or don’t break down the chitin enough to allow the COIs to become exposed, resulting in the inner constituents to pass through the intestinal system without getting absorbed.

With UAE, low frequency, ultra-sound waves are applied to the a liquid slurry of the fruiting body; this creates little bubbles on the surface of the fungal surface, which damages the cellular walls of the mushroom, allowing the COIs to transfer to the extract liquid. The outcome that follows promises a higher amount of exposed “good stuff”, allowing the body to better take in more of the valuable compounds offered than other extraction techniques.

The optimum number of COIs extracted is achieved with less energy, resources, and raw materials; it is environmentally-conscious, energy efficient, and requires no harsh chemicals.

Simply put, you get more bang for your buck.

FAQs

  • A dual extraction tincture is a specialized method used to extract active compounds from plants and fungi for medicinal purposes. This process is used when the desired compounds are not easily soluble in a single solvent or when they have different solubilities. First, the mushroom is soaked in alcohol to extract alcohol-soluble compounds like essential oils and alkaloids. Then a separate extraction using water is performed to extract water-soluble compounds like polysaccharides. The two extracts are combined to create a dual extraction tincture which contains a wider range of active compounds from the plant. This method maximizes the extraction of therapeutic compounds and results in a more potent herbal remedy.

    We utilize ultrasonic frequencies to extract beneficial compounds from plants or other substances. Ultrasound waves create tiny bubbles in the liquid, which burst and generate shock waves, aiding in the extraction process.

    Incorporating this process ensures a more effective extraction of valuable compounds, resulting in higher-quality with enhanced benefits.

    This can potentially enhance the bioavailability of these compounds, including their absorption in the intestine. UAE can also lead to the production of extracts with higher antioxidant activity, which can protect against oxidative stress in the gut and improve gut health.

  • No. Although alcohol is used during the extraction process, ultimately, the alcohol itself gets extracted out and is substituted by plant-based glycerin, a mildly sweet-tasting plant-based sugar with a light syrup-like consistency. This ingredient helps preserve the tincture, by inhibiting microbial growth, allowing for longer shelf life.

  • The tinctures are best when taken within one year of the date bottled, listed in the “Batch no.” box on the label under the supplement info. To preserve shelf life, it is best stored refrigerated.

  • Generally, these extracts can be administered by mouth, direct from the dropper, but it is not uncommon to take it topically, as certain fungi has anti-virulent, anti-microbial, and anti-aging benefits. Besides this, we encourage you to get creative by utilizing the various natural flavors in each tincture by adding them to syrups, beverages, and sauces.

  • Factors such as metabolism, individual body chemistry, and the specific tincture can influence the onset and duration of effects. It is important to keep in mind that mushroom tinctures may have a cumulative effect, with benefits that can continue to unfold over time as you incorporate them into your routine.

  • These bottles are 2 ounces, so they can be stored in your carry-on. As for legalities, these tinctures are not psycho-active and generally legal to carry in most, if not all, states and countries.

  • Mushroom extracts, like any other natural products or supplements, have the potential to interact with medications or other supplements. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss any adverse effects. As with any supplement or change in a wellness routine, always consult a healthcare professional. Feel free to read our medical disclaimer HERE.

Further Reading

We learned from the best. Some of the source texts from which we draw our knowledge:

Yoong Kit Leong a, Fan-Chiang Yang a, Jo-Shu Chang. Extraction of polysaccharides from edible mushrooms: Emerging technologies and recent advances

Powell, Martin. Medicinal Mushrooms: A Clinical Guide

Ghasemzadeh, A., & Ghasemzadeh, N. (2019).  Flavonoids and phenolic acids: Role and biochemical activity in plants and human

Vilkhu, K., Mawson, R., Simons, L., & Bates, D. (2008). Applications and opportunities for ultrasound assisted extraction in the food industry — A review