How To Make Dried Mushroom Capsules
Creating your own dried mushroom capsules is a simple, effective, and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of mushrooms. Whether you’re focusing on functional mushrooms like lion’s mane, reishi, or cordyceps for health benefits or any other species, capsules allow for precise dosing and portability. This guide walks you through the entire process of making dried mushroom capsules, from preparation to encapsulation.
Why Make Mushroom Capsules?
Mushroom capsules offer several benefits. They’re easy to store, portable, and allow for consistent dosing without the strong taste or texture of raw mushrooms. Capsules are especially useful for medicinal mushrooms, which often need to be consumed in specific amounts to maximize their benefits.
Some people prefer capsules over tinctures or dry powder for various reasons:
1. Taste and convenience: Tinctures or raw powders often have strong, earthy flavors that some people find unpleasant. Capsules mask the taste entirely.
2. Dosing precision: Capsules allow for precise measurement of your intake, ensuring consistency in every dose.
3. Portability: Capsules are easy to carry and consume on the go, unlike powders that require mixing or tinctures that need careful handling.
4. No preparation required: With capsules, there’s no need to brew tea or mix powders into beverages, saving time and effort.
Selecting your mushrooms
Start by choosing high-quality dried mushrooms. Popular options include:
Lion’s mane for cognitive support and focus.
Reishi for stress relief and immune support.
Cordyceps for energy and stamina.
Turkey tail for immune health.
Chaga for its antioxidant properties.
Ensure that your mushrooms are thoroughly dried before use. Any residual moisture can lead to mold or spoilage, compromising the quality of your capsules.
What you’ll need
Dried mushrooms
Capsule filling machine (optional, for faster production)
Empty capsules (vegetarian or gelatin, size 0 or 00 is most common)
A grinder or food processor for powdering the mushrooms
Airtight storage container or jar
Step-by-Step Guide To Making Capsules
Prepare the Mushrooms
Begin by grinding your dried mushrooms into a fine powder. Use a coffee grinder, spice grinder, or food processor to achieve a uniform consistency. Sift the powder through a fine mesh strainer to remove any larger particles, ensuring the powder is smooth for encapsulation.
Calculate Dosage of Capsule
Determine the appropriate amount of mushroom powder for each capsule based on your intended dosage. For example, if you want each capsule to contain 500 mg (0.5 grams) of mushroom powder and you’re using size 00 capsules, you’ll need approximately 0.5 grams of powder per capsule. Multiply this by the number of capsules you’re making to calculate the total amount of mushroom powder needed.
As a guideline:
- Size 0 capsules hold about 400–500 mg of powder.
- Size 00 capsules hold about 600–800 mg of powder.
How To Fill The Capsules
Manual method: Open each capsule by separating the two halves. Use a small spoon or capsule-filling tool to fill the larger half of the capsule with mushroom powder. Press lightly to compact the powder, then attach the smaller half of the capsule to close it.
Capsule filling machine method: Load the capsule halves into the machine according to the instructions. Spread the mushroom powder over the open capsules using the provided tool, press the powder into the capsules, and close them using the machine.
How To Properly Store Your Capsules
Transfer the filled capsules into an airtight container or jar to keep them fresh. Store them in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly stored mushroom capsules can last for up to a year, though it’s best to use them within six months for maximum potency.
Tips for Success
Make sure your mushroom powder is completely dry to avoid moisture-related issues.
Label your capsules with the mushroom type, dosage per capsule, and the date they were made.
Keep your workspace clean to avoid contamination.
Dosing Recommendations
Most functional mushrooms generally require a consistent daily dose to achieve their benefits. For example:
Lion’s mane: 500 mg to 3,000 mg per day.
Reishi: 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg per day.
Cordyceps: 1,000 mg to 3,000 mg per day.
Turkey tail: 2,000 mg to 3,000 mg per day.
Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it based on your body’s response. Always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the appropriate dosage for your needs.
Common mistakes to avoid
Using mushrooms with residual moisture can lead to spoilage. Ensure mushrooms are thoroughly dried before grinding.
Inconsistent powdering may lead to capsules with uneven dosages. Grind the mushrooms finely and sift the powder.
Overpacking capsules can cause them to break or not close properly. Avoid forcing too much powder into the capsules.
Final thoughts
Making your own dried mushroom capsules is a cost-effective and efficient way to incorporate the benefits of functional mushrooms into your daily routine. By following these steps, you can create high-quality capsules tailored to your needs, ensuring you always have a reliable and convenient way to support your health. Whether you prefer capsules for their portability, taste masking, or precise dosing, they offer a versatile and user-friendly method for consuming mushrooms. Take your time, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy the convenience and versatility of homemade mushroom capsules.