Fungi are truly amazing organisms. Did you know that the mushrooms that you see peeking above ground are usually only a small part of a much larger organism? Like thready roots, the mushroom is fed by a growing network of mycelium.
WIth so much new interest in mushrooms, and their potential benefits to humans, attention has turned below ground—does mycelium have benefits of its own? If so, how do we unlock this invisible network?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be digging into the world of Pure Mycelium™ extracts, uncovering their unique qualities, and addressing common questions you may have. We’ll explain why extracts are superior to powder, and that not all mycelium is created equal. Read on to learn all about Pure Mycelium™.
Pure Mycelium™ Extracts: Nature’s Hidden Treasure
Before we start talking about extracts and specifics, let’s get to the “root” of it: what is mycelium?
Mycelium is the intricate network of fine fungal threads that fan out beneath the surface of a mushroom. It’s essentially the mushroom’s “root system,” and serves as its anchor and nutrient-absorbing base.
The mycelium is where a mushroom’s growth begins, stretching, spreading, and maybe even communicating with other fungi and species. Scientists have shown that these mycelial fibers seem to have decision-making capabilities, which later fuse together and start building the fruiting body of the mushroom.
And while the fruiting body might be more familiar to you, don’t underestimate the advantages Pure Mycelium™ Extracts:
- Consistency: Pure Mycelium™ extracts offer a consistent and controlled environment for cultivation. This ensures high-quality and standardized extracts.
- Bioactive Compounds: In the right environment, mycelium can be incredibly rich in bioactive compounds, making it a potent source of wellness benefits.
- Sustainability: Cultivating Pure Mycelium™ extracts can be more sustainable, as it doesn’t require the same amount of resources and time as growing a full fruiting body.
- Diversity: Just like whole fruiting bodies, Pure Mycelium™ extracts offer a diverse range of benefits, making it possible to harness the advantages of various mushrooms.
Mycelium Powder vs. Mycelium Extract
Much like the comparison between mushroom powder and mushroom extract, there’s a distinction between mycelium powder and mycelium extract. Don’t settle for powders, mycelium needs to be properly extracted to really get its hard-to-find benefits!
Here’s how to differentiate the two:
Mycelium Powder: Mycelium powder is created by collecting,drying, and grinding the entire mycelium, encompassing both the mycelium and the underlying substrate.
Mycelium Extract: Extracted through liquid fermentation, only proper extraction techniques are capable of breaking down the touch mycelial cell walls, fully releasing the beneficial compounds.
Remember, when you’re shopping for the best experience, mycelium extract is the answer.
Pure Mycelium™ vs. Mycelium on Grain (MOG)
And just in case you thought “extract” was all you needed to look for, think again!
That’s because many mycelium and mushroom products are not grown on their native hardwoods, but on cakes of cheap, plentiful grains. This means that the mycelium will not be able to absorb and produce the full range of active compounds that it otherwise would.
WholeSun Wellness fruiting bodies and mycelium are grown as nature intended.
Our Pure Mycelium™ | Mycelium on Grain (MOG |
Our Pure Mycelium™ grows in a liquid culture, as possible to its natural, nutrient-rich environment. | Mycelium grown on grain is far from its natural environment. Instead of naturally absorbing nutrients, MOG absorbs starch from the rice, oats, or barley. |
Mycelium grown in its ideal habitat will have significant levels of active compounds such as beta-glucans, phytochemicals, enzymes, and minerals. | The extra starch shows up in test results as higher levels of polysaccharides, but those are starchy alpha-glucans, not more beta-glucans! |
Our extraction methods cracks open the mycelium cell walls, releasing the active compounds. | Some companies freeze dry, ferment, or grind the MOG. These processes do not deliver the same therapeutic benefits as a proper extraction. |
Explore the Magic of Pure Mycelium™ Extracts
If you’re intrigued by the wonders of Pure Mycelium™ extracts, check out our range of products. Discover the difference that real care and attention makes, and experience their transformative effects on your well-being.