Exploring the Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee
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Last Updated on August 9, 2023
Do you know about all the amazing health benefits of mushroom coffee? If you are ready to explore how adding adaptogenic mushrooms to your morning brew can help you live a more vibrant and healthy life, read on! We also go over all the top brands and break down ingredients and caffeine content.
Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee
With all the hype surrounding mushroom coffee, you might be wondering “Is mushroom coffee good for you?”
In this article we will cover the potential health benefits of mushroom coffee, how it’s made, what it contains, and reasons you might want to consider swapping it for your morning brew.
First, let’s learn a bit about what this popular coffee drink is!
What is Mushroom Coffee?
Are you tired of the same old cup of joe in the morning? Many folks are switching up their morning brew for hot beverages like chicory coffee and mushroom coffee.
Yes, you heard it right, mushrooms and coffee have joined forces to create a unique and delicious concoction that will elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
Now, you might be wondering, why on earth would anyone want to mix mushrooms with their beloved cup of coffee?
Well, it turns out that mushrooms bring a whole host of health benefits to the table. From boosting your immune system to enhancing your focus and mental clarity, these fungi are truly a powerhouse of wellness.
What does Mushroom Coffee Taste Like?
Don’t worry, mushroom coffee doesn’t taste like a forest floor. In fact, the taste of mushroom coffee has a rich and earthy flavor that complements the boldness of coffee perfectly.
One of the great things about mushroom coffee is its versatility. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, black or with a splash of plant based milk, you can customize it to suit your taste buds. You can use a healthy sweetener for coffee to make your mushroom coffee taste great.
Medicinal Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been use for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine due to their remarkable health benefits. But don’t be fooled by their humble appearances; these little powerhouses are packed with potent compounds that can give your overall well-being a mighty boost.
From the health benefits of chantrelle mushrooms and the popular reishi, cordyceps, and lion’s mane to lesser-known varieties like chaga, turkey tail, and shiitake, there’s no shortage of options to explore.
You can even take mushroom supplements if drinking mushroom coffee isn’t your thing.
Common Medicinal Mushrooms Found in Mushroom Coffee
Let’s take a look at the potential health benefits of the different types of mushrooms commonly found in mushroom coffee products.
Reishi Mushroom
Packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, reishi mushrooms work to defend your body against oxidative stress and help to support a robust immune system.
Moreover, they have been linked to promoting heart health, reducing fatigue, and even improving sleep quality.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane has gained significant attention for its potential to boost brain health and improve cognitive function. It also stimulates the growth of nerve cells, promoting mental clarity and focus.
But that’s not all! Lion’s mane also boasts immune-boosting properties, helping to fend off viruses – keeping you feeling your best!
Cordyceps Mushroom
Bursting with goodness, this mighty mushroom has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for its incredible health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, cordyceps mushrooms can boost your immune system, improve energy levels, and enhance endurance.
Chaga Mushroom
Chaga mushrooms help to combat free radicals, boost brain function, and improve focus. They also support a healthy immune system and promote a youthful radiance. Not only that, but chaga mushroom extract is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, soothing your joints and muscles.
Turkey Tail Mushroom
From boosting your immune system to supporting digestion, turkey tail mushrooms offer loads of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, they help to fight off free radicals and also promote gut health.
Maitake Mushrooms
These mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients, such as vitamins B and C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritional powerhouse. Maitake mushrooms have been celebrated for their immune-boosting support and contain anti-inflammatory properties.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins B and D, minerals, and antioxidants that can contribute to overall well-being.
Research has shown that consuming shiitake mushrooms may help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. Additionally, they are a great source of dietary fiber and have been linked to improved digestion and gut health.
Ways to Make Mushroom Coffee
There are two basic ways you can make mushroom coffee. The first is adding a mushroom powder to your coffee and the other is using a mushroom coffee mix.
Mushroom Powder in Coffee
Mushroom coffee is incredibly easy to make when you use mushroom powder. Simply mix a packet of mushroom coffee with hot water, and voila! You’ve got yourself a cup of liquid gold that will kickstart your day like never before.
Mushroom/Coffee Combination
Due to the trendiness of mushroom coffee, it’s easier than ever to find a mushroom coffee blend that comes mixed and ready to make. If you’d like to explore the best mushroom coffee brands, scroll down and check out our list of faves.
How Does Mushroom Coffee Compare to Traditional Coffee?
When it comes to a caffeinated pick-me-up, traditional coffee has long been the go-to for many. But have you ever considered the magic that lies within mushroom coffee?
This unique blend combines the rich, robust flavors of coffee with the medicinal benefits of mushrooms. Not only does it provide a smooth and earthy taste, but it also offers a plethora of health advantages.
From boosting your immune system to enhancing your focus and concentration, mushroom coffee takes your daily ritual to a whole new level. So, if you’re ready to explore a delicious and energizing alternative, sip on some mushroom coffee and experience the wonders it has to offer.
Is There Coffee in Mushroom Coffee?
Contrary to what the name might imply, mushroom coffee does, in fact, contain coffee. Unless, of course, you are using just a blend of mushrooms (and there are several options for coffee-free mushroom mixes!).
The coffee is typically sourced from high-quality, organic, and fair-trade coffee beans.
The distinguishing feature of mushroom coffee lies in its incorporation of medicinal mushrooms. These mushrooms are carefully selected for their potential health-promoting properties, which can vary depending on the mushrooms used.
Typically, the mushrooms are harvested, dried, and then ground into a fine powder before being blended with the coffee.
Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee
The potential benefits of swapping regular coffee for a cup of mushroom coffee are huge.
These natural marvels contain a treasure trove of polysaccharides, terpenoids, beta-glucans, and other bioactive substances that work wonders for our health. Whether it’s supporting our immune system, reducing inflammation, improving cognitive function, or enhancing our energy levels, medicinal mushrooms have got us covered.
So not only will you be satisfying your caffeine cravings, but you’ll also be giving your body a little extra love with every sip.
Another benefit of adding mushrooms to coffee is that their alkaline minerals can help make coffee less acidic.
Check out these positive effects and the numerous health benefits of incorporating functional mushrooms into your daily routine.
Less Caffeine, or None at All
Depending on the brand of mushroom coffee you purchase, it may or may not contain caffeine, although most do. Some mushroom coffee blends will use decaffinated coffee, and others have less caffeine.
Some brands sell mushroom mixes without coffee and caffeine that you can add to your coffee, smoothies, and other beverages. Be sure to check the labels if the caffeine content is important to you.
May Improve Brain Function
Mushrooms like lion’s mane and cordyceps contain bioactive compounds that may enhance focus, memory, and overall mental clarity.
These mushrooms are believed to stimulate the production of nerve growth factors, promoting the growth and repair of brain cells.
Additionally, they possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the brain from oxidative stress. By incorporating mushroom coffee into your routine, you can potentially boost your brain function and support your mental well-being.
Mushroom Coffee Can Help You Focus
Do you ever find yourself struggling to stay focused throughout the day? Mushroom coffee could be the answer you are looking for to help you focus and perform at your best.
Packed with brain-boosting ingredients, mushroom coffee can enhance your cognitive function and improve your ability to concentrate.
With mushroom coffee you can say goodbye to those mid-afternoon slumps and hello to sharp mental clarity.
Mushrooms Help Boost Immunity
Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, mushroom coffee may give your immune system the extra kick it needs. With mushroom varieties like reishi, chaga, and lion’s mane, mushroom coffee offers potential anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and immune-strengthening properties.
May Help Ease Stress
Are you feeling stressed out and looking for a natural way to find some calm in your day? Look no further than mushroom coffee!
The blend of coffee and medicinal mushrooms offers a unique and effective solution for stress relief. The adaptogenic properties found in certain mushroom varieties, such as reishi and lion’s mane, have been known to help regulate stress levels and promote relaxation.
May Support Heart Health
Packed with powerful antioxidants and beta-glucans, mushrooms work their magic by reducing inflammation and bolstering your immune system. And when combined with the invigorating properties of coffee, you’ve got yourself a heart-healthy concoction that’s both flavorful and beneficial.
May Help Protect Against Chronic Diseases
By blending the rich flavors of coffee with the medicinal benefits of mushrooms, mushroom coffee acts as a fortress against chronic diseases. From reducing inflammation to enhancing brain function, mushroom coffee is the ultimate health hack.
Mushroom Coffee May Reduce Inflammation
The key ingredient in mushroom coffee, medicinal mushrooms, contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. These mushrooms, such as reishi, lion’s mane, and chaga, contain bioactive compounds that help regulate the immune system and lower inflammation markers.
Mushroom Coffee Can Help Reduce Fatigue
With its rich antioxidant properties and immune-boosting abilities, mushroom coffee provides a sustainable energy boost without the jitters or crash typically associated with traditional caffeine sources.
Mushroom Coffee Boosts Energy
Mushroom contains a variety of adaptogenic mushrooms such as cordyceps and lion’s mane, which have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to enhance vitality and combat fatigue.
These mushrooms work in synergy to support your body’s natural ability to adapt to stress, ultimately promoting sustained energy and focus throughout the day.
Supports the Nervous System
When it comes to the nervous system, adaptogens play a crucial role in helping it adapt to stressors and maintain optimal functioning.
Lion’s mane mushrooms are known for its potent neuroprotective properties. It contains compounds that may stimulate the growth of brain cells, enhance cognitive function, and support memory and concentration.
Reishi mushrooms are revered for its calming effects on the nervous system. It contains bioactive compounds that help reduce anxiety, alleviate stress, and support a healthy sleep cycle.
May Have Anticancer Properties
Studies have suggested that mushroom coffee may possess anticancer properties.
Several compounds found in mushrooms, such as polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenoids, have shown promising effects in inhibiting tumor growth, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system.
May Promote Healthy Aging
As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage and accelerate the aging process. Mushroom coffee contains high levels of antioxidants that combat free radicals, helping to protect our cells and promote a youthful appearance.
Mushroom Coffee Promotes a Healthy Metabolism
The synergy between a regular cup of coffee and mushrooms stimulates thermogenesis, a process that increases your body’s calorie-burning potential. As a result, your metabolic rate gets a natural, gentle boost, helping you maintain a healthy weight or even shed a few extra pounds.
Supports Healthy Blood Sugar
One of the primary mushrooms found in mushroom coffee blends is the chaga mushroom. It’s packed with antioxidants and bioactive compounds and can help regulate blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity.
Also known for its adaptogenic properties, cordyceps helps balance blood sugar levels by assisting in glucose metabolism. By enhancing the body’s ability to utilize glucose effectively, cordyceps can help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes, promoting stable energy levels throughout the day.
So, if you are looking to help regulate your blood sugar levels, consider finding a mushroom blend that contains both chaga and cordyceps mushrooms.
Mushrooms Can Improve Sleep Quality
Aside from its calming properties, mushroom coffee supports the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels, it helps regulate the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation.
The result? A smoother transition into deep, restorative sleep, and waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Maintains Healthy Gut Flora
Mushroom coffee contains prebiotic fibers that act as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to improved digestion and nutrient absorption.
Provides Antioxidants
Antioxidants play a crucial role in combating harmful free radicals that can wreak havoc on our cells. These unstable molecules can accelerate aging, weaken the immune system, and contribute to the development of various diseases.
That’s where mushroom coffee comes to the rescue!
Mushrooms, such as reishi, chaga, and lion’s mane, are packed with natural antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and protect our cells from oxidative stress.
When combined with the energizing effects of coffee, you get a powerful elixir that not only wakes you up but also supports your overall well-being.
Adaptogens or Herbs Often Added to Mushroom Coffee
Many mushroom coffee blends incorporate different adaptogens and herbs. For instance, there are many health benefits of cayenne pepper and turmeric, so it can be found in some mushroom codffe blends. The cayenne definitly adds a kick!
Here are some of the most common additions to mushroom coffee blends:
- Ashwagandha
- Burdock Root
- Chicory
- Dandelion
- Ginseng
- Maca
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
- Pepper
- Rhodiola Rosea
How is Mushroom Coffee Made?
Mushroom coffee starts out with high-quality coffee beans, typically sourced from organic and sustainable farms. These beans are then carefully roasted to perfection, ensuring the optimal balance of flavor and aroma.
Next, medicinal mushrooms are chosen for their particular health-promoting properties. These mushrooms undergo a meticulous extraction process, where the active compounds are carefully extracted using methods like hot water extraction or dual-extraction techniques.
Once the coffee beans and mushroom extracts are prepared, they are carefully combined into mushroom coffee.
Possible Side Effects of Mushroom Coffee
Mushroom coffee offers an intriguing blend of flavors and potential health benefits. However, it is essential to be aware of the possible side effects that can arise from its consumption.
Digestive discomfort, allergic reactions, interactions with medications, and caffeine sensitivity are some of the aspects to consider.
As always, if you have any concerns or questions, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Should You Try Mushroom Coffee?
If you’d like to experience some of the amazing health benefits we covered, then you should give mushroom coffee a try! We’ve sourced the best and most popular mushroom coffee brands for you.
Top Mushroom Coffee Brands
Here are the best mushroom coffees on the market today. The prices listed are from Amazon unless otherwise noted and may change at anytime. Be sure to check prices before purchasing.
We’ve listed out all the ingredients for each mushroom mix, but be sure to verify before consuming.
Several blends come to less than $1.00 per cup/serving!
Four Sigmatic
Price: $24.64/$.82 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This is an add-in mix that you add to your coffee or other beverage. It’s not a coffee and mushroom blend, which means you can toss it in smoothies, hot chocolate, etc.
Ingredients: organic log-grown lion’s mane, organic cordyceps, organic rhodiola rosea, organic bacopa monnieri, real organic cacao, vitamin B12, organic blueberry
Laird Superfood
Price: $18/$.40 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This is an add-in mix that you add to your coffee or other beverage. It’s not a coffee and mushroom blend, which means you can toss it in smoothies, hot chocolate, etc.
Ingredients: organic chaga mushroom, organic cordyceps mushroom, organic lion’s mane mushroom, organic maitake mushroom
Pella Organic Mushroom Coffee
Price: $21.67/$.36 per cup
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: 80-100mg per serving
Ingredients: Columbian coffee and organic mushroom extracts: lion’s mane, reishi, chaga, cordyceps, shiitake, maitake, and turkey tail
Naturealm’s Sacred 7 Mushroom Extract Powder
Price: $42.49/$.19 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This is an add-in mix that you add to your coffee or other beverage. It’s not a coffee and mushroom blend, which means you can toss it in smoothies, hot chocolate, etc.
Ingredients: reishi, maitake, cordyceps, lion’s mane, turkey tail, shiitake, chaga
Rasa
Price: $27.20/$.91 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This mushroom blend doesn’t contain coffee, however it does contain several herbs and adaptogens.
Ingredients: roasted chicory, roasted burdock, shatavari, roasted dandelion, eleuthero, codonopsis, roasted date seed, roasted maca, ceylon cinnamon, ashwagandha, rhodiola, chaga mycelium, & reishi fruiting body extract
Ryze
Price: $30/$1.00 per cup (don’t purchase from Amazon; you’ll get the best price from the company directly.)
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: 48mg of caffeine per serving
Ingredients: organic mushroom blend: cordyceps, reishi, king trumpet, shiitake, lion’s mane, turkey tail, organic coffee, organic MCT oil powder, organic coconut milk powder
MUD\WTR
Price: $40 per month subscription service/$1.33 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: 32mg of caffeine per serving
Ingredients: Organic Mushroom Blend (Chaga, Reishi, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps Mushrooms and Mycelium cultured on Organic Oats and/or Organic Sorghum), Organic Cacao, Organic Spice Blend (Organic Cinnamon, Organic Turmeric, Organic Ginger, Organic Cardamom, Organic Black Pepper, Organic Nutmeg, Organic Cloves), Organic Black Tea Powder, Himalayan Pink Salt
Renude Chagaccino
Price: $40.49/$1.35 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This is a caffeine-free blend of mushrooms and spices. It doesn’t contain coffee and can be added to any beverage or smoothie.
Ingredients: 100% wild foraged chaga, organic cacao, organic ceylon cinnamon, & monk fruit
Om Mushroom Superfood
Price: $26.99/$.79 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This mushroom mix doesn’t contain coffee, however it does contain ten different mushroom species and adaptogens. It can be added to coffee or any beverage.
Ingredients: certified organic mushroom powder blend: organic lion’s mane, organic reishi, organic cordyceps, organic turkey tail, organic chaga, organic king trumpet, organic maitake, organic antrodia, organic shiitake, organic himematsutake, certified organic reishi extract, certified organic adaptogen blend: organic astragalus root powder, organic ginkgo biloba, leaf powder, organic holy basil leaf powder, organic myceliated oats.
Wixar Mushroom Powder
Price: $22.49/$.56 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This is a mix of 10 different mushrooms, but contains no coffee. Add it to your favorite beverage.
Ingredients: lion’s mane (hericium erinaceus), reishi (ganoderma lucidum), cordyceps (cordyceps militaris), turkey tail (trametes versicolor), chaga (inonotus obliquus), maitake (grifola frondosa), shiitake (lentinula edodes), king trumpet , agaricus blazei and willow bracket (phellinus ignatius).
Genius Brilliant Brew
Price: $38.24/$1.27 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: 35mg of caffeine per serving
Brilliant Brew is a cocoa flavored drink that may be consumed iced, room temperature, or hot. It’s important to note that the mushrooms are grown using oats.
Ingredients: organic maca powder, organic reishi, organic cordyceps, zynamite®, organic turmeric, organic chaga, organic turkey tail, organic maitake, organic lion’s mane, guarana extract, cocoa powder, stevia leaf extract, silica, himalayan pink salt, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder.
Elderwise Organics Coffee with Mushrooms
Price: $16.99/$.71 per cup
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: 60mg of caffeine per serving
Ingredients: organic coffee, lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, and sea moss
Tiger Mushroom Coffee Organic Blend
Price: $16.13/$.54 per cup
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: 60mg caffeine per serving
Ingredients: reishi, chaga, maitake, shiitake, turkey tail, Arabica instant coffee
No Stranger Mushroom Coffee
Price: $20.39/$.78 per cup
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: Unknown
This brand contains L-theanine. L-theanine promotes heightened focus, improved memory, and enhanced mental clarity.
Ingredients: lion’s mane, reishi, L-theanine, and 100% Arabica beans, dextrin
FreshCap – Ultimate Mushroom Complex
Price: $34.99/$.58 per cup
Coffee Added: No
Caffeine: None
This blend of functional mushrooms does not contain coffee. Add a scoop of the mushroom blend to coffee, tea, smoothies, or any other foods.
Ingredients: lion’s mane, reishi, chaga, cordyceps, maitake and turkey tail
Everyday Dose Mushroom Latte
Price: $33.99/$1.13 per cup
Coffee Added: Yes
Caffeine: 39mg caffeine per serving
This brand contains L-theanine and collagen protein. L-theanine promotes heightened focus, improved memory, and enhanced mental clarity.
Ingredients: lion’s mane & chaga extracts, proprietary coffee extract (39 mg of caffeine), collagen protein, L-theanine
Mushroom Coffee Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to embark on a caffeinated adventure like no other, give mushroom coffee a try. It’s the perfect way to add a little magic to your daily routine while reaping the incredible health benefits that mushrooms have to offer. Trust me, once you go mushroom, you’ll never go back.
