Mushroom coffee: What it is, benefits, and side effects

Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground mushrooms and traditional coffee. It's marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, with claims of cognitive, immune, and stress-relief benefits. But how much of this hype is actually backed by science?

While mushrooms like lion’s mane, chaga, and reishi have been studied for their health-promoting properties, there’s little research on how those benefits hold up when the mushrooms are processed and brewed into coffee.

So what exactly is mushroom coffee, and how does it compare to the usual cup of joe? Let's dive in to understand its effects, benefits, and whether it's worth trying.

What is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee is made by combining coffee beans with medicinal mushrooms. These mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, chaga, and reishi, have been traditionally used in herbal medicine for their supposed health benefits. The idea behind mushroom coffee is that you get a beverage with less caffeine but added functional compounds from mushrooms.

However, one major issue is that the research supporting the health benefits of these mushrooms has mostly been conducted on mushroom extracts or supplements — not on mushroom coffee. There’s no solid evidence that their benefits remain intact after being processed, combined with coffee, and brewed at high temperatures.

Does mushroom coffee have caffeine?

Yes, mushroom coffee contains caffeine, but it’s much less than a regular cup of coffee. Since medicinal mushrooms don’t contain caffeine, blending them with coffee beans results in a lower overall caffeine content. This means mushroom coffee can provide a milder energy boost without the intense jitters of traditional coffee.

Benefits of mushroom coffee

The supposed benefits of mushroom coffee come from the medicinal mushrooms included in the blend. But again, most studies on these mushrooms involve concentrated extracts, not coffee blends.

Well-designed clinical trials on humans are lacking, and there’s no guarantee that any of the active compounds survive the brewing process. With that in mind, here are some of the potential benefits based on existing research on medicinal mushrooms:

May boost cognitive function

Lion’s mane is often touted for its potential to support brain function. It contains compounds that may promote nerve growth factor (NGF), which plays a role in brain health. Some early research suggests it might support memory and focus, but these studies use concentrated lion’s mane extracts, not mushroom coffee. If you’re looking for cognitive benefits, a lion’s mane supplement like SOOO focused might be a more reliable option.

May support immunity

Reishi and chaga mushrooms are known for their high antioxidant content and potential immune-supporting effects. However, these benefits have been observed primarily in lab and animal studies, and it’s unclear if drinking them in coffee has the same effect. If immune support is your goal, a properly dosed mushroom supplement may be a more effective choice.

May reduce stress

Mushrooms such as reishi are adaptogens, which help your body respond to stress. Some people report feeling calmer after drinking mushroom coffee, but this is anecdotal. Adaptogenic effects are better studied in supplement form, where dosages are standardized.

Does mushroom coffee help you lose weight?

There’s no strong evidence to suggest mushroom coffee directly promotes weight loss. While caffeine can slightly boost metabolism, the mushrooms themselves do not have any proven fat-burning properties.

Stress reduction from adaptogens could theoretically help prevent stress-related overeating, but this is speculative. For weight management, a balanced diet and regular exercise remain the most effective approach.

Mushroom coffee side effects

Mushroom coffee is generally considered safe, but some individuals may experience side effects, including:

• Digestive discomfort.
• Allergic reactions to mushrooms.
• Potential interactions with medications.

If you’re new to mushroom coffee, start with a small amount to see how your body reacts. And if you have underlying health conditions or take medication, consult a healthcare professional before trying it.

Best mushroom coffee types

Different types of mushroom coffee feature various mushrooms, each with distinct properties:

Lion’s mane coffee

Lion’s mane is a popular choice for mushroom coffee due to its cognitive benefits. It’s linked to improved memory, focus, and overall brain health. However, since lion’s mane benefits have been studied primarily in concentrated extract form, you may get better results from a supplement.

Chaga coffee

Chaga is another highly regarded medicinal mushroom known for its antioxidant properties. It supports immune health and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Again, concentrated chaga extract supplements like SOOO immune are a more reliable way to consume these beneficial compounds.

Reishi coffee

Reishi is known as the "mushroom of immortality" and is famous for its stress-relieving properties. It’s often used in mushroom coffee for its calming effects, making it a good option for people who want a gentle coffee alternative that helps with relaxation without causing drowsiness.

Cordyceps coffee

Cordyceps is often linked to increased energy and athletic performance. Some research suggests it may support oxygen utilization and stamina. While cordyceps coffee may provide a gentle energy boost, a standardized cordyceps supplement like SOOO energetic is likely a more potent option for endurance benefits.

What is the best time to drink mushroom coffee?

The best time to drink mushroom coffee depends on what you’re hoping to get out of it. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Morning boost. If you're looking for a lower-caffeine coffee alternative, mushroom coffee can be a gentler way to start the day.
• Pre-workout fuel. Some people drink mushroom coffee before workouts, particularly if it contains cordyceps, which may support endurance.
• Afternoon pick-me-up. Mushroom coffee can provide a more balanced caffeine boost than traditional coffee.
• Calm before bed. Reishi coffee is often marketed as a relaxing nighttime drink, but be mindful of the caffeine content.

Mushroom coffee alternatives

If mushroom coffee doesn’t seem like the best fit, consider these alternatives:

• Longevity supplements. These often offer standardized dosages of medicinal mushrooms, ensuring you get the full range of benefits.
• Adaptogenic teas. Herbal blends featuring adaptogens like ashwagandha or holy basil can provide stress relief without caffeine.
• Matcha or yerba mate. These drinks offer a smoother, more sustained energy boost compared to coffee.

Bottom line: Does mushroom coffee work?

Mushroom coffee is an interesting alternative to regular coffee, but the hype around it is based on the assumption that mushrooms retain their benefits when processed into coffee. The reality is that no well-designed human clinical trials confirm this. If you’re looking for the proven benefits of medicinal mushrooms, supplements may be a better choice.

READ NEXT: The synergy of exercise, cordyceps, and lion’s mane for longevity

FAQ

Is mushroom coffee good for you?

It depends. While medicinal mushrooms have potential health benefits, it’s unclear if these benefits survive the coffee brewing process. If you want to support brain function, immunity, or stress management, mushroom supplements may be a more effective option.

What does mushroom coffee do for your stomach?

Some medicinal mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that may support digestive health. However, this effect is primarily studied in supplement form, and there’s no strong evidence that mushroom coffee provides the same benefits.