“A Day in the Life (and 5 Surprising Ways I Actually Use My Own Mushroom Tinctures)”

A behind-the-scenes look at how a grower and tincture maker uses the products they craft.

I grow the mushrooms. I extract the tinctures. I bottle each one by hand. But I also use them myself—every single day. That’s something I don’t think enough makers talk about.

Over time, these tinctures have become part of my rhythm—helping me focus, sleep, reset, and manage long, physical days. What surprises most people is just how many ways to use mushroom tinctures show up in daily life without it feeling like a chore.

Here’s a look at my routine and how I use all five of my own tinctures in a typical day.

Morning begins with Lion’s Mane

Before anything—no emails, no lab prep—I take 2 full droppers of Lion’s Mane with cool water. It’s how I switch on without stimulants. That one dose helps me ease into the day with more clarity and fewer distractions. I do this without fail.

Mid-morning: Cordyceps for energy support

Even with Max helping out on the heavy lifting, there’s a lot that demands steady energy: managing cultures, sanitizing gear, prepping orders. I take 2 droppers of Cordyceps mid-morning, after breakfast. It’s smooth, dependable energy—not a spike or a crash.

Shiitake at lunch (in more ways than one)

Sometimes I take 2 droppers of Shiitake right after lunch. Other times, I add it directly to my salad dressing—olive oil, vinegar, mustard, herbs, and Shiitake. The flavor blends in, and it’s an easy way to get inflammation support without even thinking about it.

Turkey Tail: Daily immune support after lunch

I take 2 full droppers of Turkey Tail early afternoon. It works well with digestion, and I rely on it to keep my immune system strong, especially during farmers markets or after long days in the lab.

This one is less about what you feel and more about what doesn’t happen. I stay healthy and steady, and I don’t skip it.

Reishi at night to wind down

About 30 minutes before bed, I take 2 full droppers of Reishi. It’s the final marker in my day. It helps me shut down my thoughts, fall asleep easier, and stay asleep without waking up groggy. I’ve tried stopping it before. I don’t do that anymore.

5 Creative Ways to Use Mushroom Tinctures in Everyday Life

Because it doesn’t always have to be a dropper in a glass.

1. Add Shiitake to salad dressing—zero taste, long-term benefit

2. Mix Reishi into tepid herbal tea at night—no sugar needed

3. Blend Lion’s Mane into your morning smoothie

4. Stir Turkey Tail into soups or broth for immune support

5. Add Cordyceps to cool lemon water before work

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If you’re trying to build a routine, these small shifts add up. They’re simple, flexible, and effective.

Why I share this

Because I make what I use. If you’re new to tinctures, don’t wait to figure it all out. Just start with what your body is asking for—clarity, energy, better sleep—and keep showing up for yourself. These mushrooms will do the same.