Is Mushroom Coffee Legit?

By: Mary
Published: June 22, 2023

Welcome to the Shroom Boom.

Mushrooms may not have always been in the spotlight, but lately, they’ve been gaining serious traction. Over the past few years, their popularity has expanded—much like, well…thriving fungi.

Certain mushrooms—such as lion’s mane, cordyceps, and chaga—have been used in traditional wellness practices for centuries. More recently, they’ve made their way into coffee blends, becoming a trending topic on social media.

Some well-known figures, including podcasters Joe Rogan and Tim Ferriss, have discussed their experiences with mushroom coffee and its potential effects on focus and productivity [1,2].

But what does the science say? Should you swap your morning brew for a mushroom-infused alternative?

Below, we’ll take a look at what research has to say about mushroom coffee, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you. And if mushrooms aren’t your thing, we’ll explore other popular coffee alternatives.

What the is Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee is just what it sounds like—coffee blended with mushroom extracts. You prepare and enjoy it just like a regular cup of coffee.

Instead of whole mushroom coffee beans, roasters mix coffee grounds with dried and ground mushroom powders.

Mushroom coffee comes in several forms, including instant, single-serve pods, and traditional drip varieties.

The mushrooms used in these blends aren’t the same as the ones you’d find in the produce aisle. Instead, they come from specific fungi that have been traditionally used in wellness practices.

One of the most common is chaga, which contains naturally occurring compounds with antioxidant properties [3]. Other mushrooms frequently found in coffee blends include lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail.

These varieties are often associated with overall wellness and are used in functional beverages for those looking to support:

Stress management
Energy levels
General immune support
Mood and focus

Where Mushroom Coffee Comes Up Short

Drinking mushroom coffee might give you the feeling of being more connected to nature—like a modern-day forager embracing the latest wellness trend.

But what’s the real story behind this buzzworthy brew?

We took a closer look at the facts to uncover the unfiltered truth about mushroom coffee.

What Does the Research Say About Mushroom Coffee?

Many studies have explored the potential benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms, particularly Lion’s Mane, with some promising findings.

However, whether those benefits translate to drinking mushroom coffee is still unclear. Here’s why:

More research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of these mushrooms. Experts agree that additional studies are necessary before any definitive conclusions can be made.
Most studies on these mushrooms have been conducted on animals, not humans—and certainly not in the form of coffee.
It’s unclear whether the brewing process preserves the beneficial compounds found in whole mushrooms [4].

While mushroom coffee may contain extracts of these well-known fungi, there is currently no conclusive evidence that it delivers the same effects observed in research studies.

Some brands may overstate their claims, so it’s important to approach mushroom coffee with realistic expectations—especially considering its price point.

It's expensive

That cup of mushroom coffee might make for a great TikTok moment, but it comes at a price—literally. Mushroom coffee typically costs about twice as much as regular coffee. Plus, it contains less caffeine.

For some, that’s a benefit (and could be why some people report fewer jitters when drinking it). But for those who rely on coffee for an energy boost, it may not deliver the same effect.

To be fair, there’s a reason for the higher price. Many of the mushrooms used in these blends, like chaga and cordyceps, are often foraged in the wild, making them more difficult to source. That exclusivity adds to the appeal.

However, with limited research on the actual benefits of mushroom coffee, it’s worth considering whether the cost matches the potential value.

It doesn't taste very good

First, let’s clear something up—mushroom coffee doesn’t actually taste like mushrooms.

It has a flavor similar to regular coffee, though some people describe it as slightly earthier or nuttier.

That said, taste is subjective. Some may enjoy the unique profile, while others might still prefer their favorite traditional brew.

Another thing to consider is variety. Compared to regular coffee, options for mushroom-based blends are more limited.

For those who appreciate the nuances of specialty coffee, a high-quality bag of traditional beans might be a better value for the price.

It may interact with some medications

Mushroom coffee may not be suitable for everyone, especially individuals taking certain medications.

Some mushrooms commonly used in these blends, such as reishi and chaga, have been noted in research for their potential to interact with medications, including those for blood pressure and blood sugar management [5,6].

If you take any prescription medications or have underlying health conditions, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before adding mushroom coffee to your routine.

How to Get the Benefits of Mushroom Coffee—Without the Mushrooms

Let’s be honest: most people try mushroom coffee because they’re looking for potential health benefits.

Let’s face it, giving up your favorite coffee brew isn’t an easy decision (for some, it’s non-negotiable!).

While we’re big fans of using naturally-sourced ingredients, like in our Elderberry Immune formula, it’s important to ensure that these ingredients are supported by strong research.

Fortunately, there are well-researched nutrients that can provide similar benefits to what mushroom coffee promises:

B Vitamins: While mushroom coffee is often marketed for its energy and digestive benefits, B vitamins—such as B1, B2, B3, and B5—are essential for metabolism and energy production. These vitamins help the body convert food into energy and improve cognitive function, supported by numerous studies [7].
Magnesium: Although mushroom coffee may claim to enhance brain function, magnesium has a stronger body of evidence showing its ability to improve cognitive function and mood [8,9]. If you’re looking to boost productivity and manage stress, magnesium supplementation could be a great option to support your well-being.

Curcumin: If you’re seeking an antioxidant with potential health benefits, curcumin is a well-researched option. Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin has been studied in humans and may support overall health [10]. However, curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body, so it is recommended to take a liposomal curcumin formula. Liposomal curcumin may improve absorption, allowing your body to make better use of it.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in supporting immune function. Many individuals may not get enough vitamin D through their diet or sun exposure, so supplementation may be a better way to support your immune system than relying on mushroom-based products [11]. Vitamin D helps regulate immune cells and manage inflammation [12]. To maximize the benefits of vitamin D, consider taking vitamin D3 with K2.

There's No Magic in Mushroom Coffee

Mushroom coffee has gained popularity on social media, but in everyday life, its impact on health may not be as significant as its cost. For supporting overall wellness, it’s essential to focus on a balanced diet rich in nutrients.

If you’re interested in the potential benefits of mushrooms, consider incorporating whole mushrooms like Lion’s Mane or Chaga into your diet.

These mushrooms are increasingly available at farmer’s markets or grocery stores.

Alternatively, a well-rounded multivitamin can help support your nutritional needs without the need for specific supplements.

FAQ

What is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee is a blend of traditional coffee mixed with powdered adaptogenic mushrooms, such as chaga, lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps. These mushrooms are known for their medicinal properties, and the coffee is consumed just like regular coffee.

What are the supposed benefits of drinking mushroom coffee?

Proponents of mushroom coffee claim it offers several health benefits, including reduced stress, increased energy, lower cholesterol, boosted immunity, and improved mood. However, it’s important to note that the evidence supporting these benefits is not conclusive.

Why is mushroom coffee more expensive than regular coffee?

Mushroom coffee tends to be more expensive due to the cost of sourcing the adaptogenic mushrooms, many of which need to be harvested in the wild. This makes them more scarce and expensive to procure.

Does mushroom coffee actually work?

While individual adaptogenic mushrooms have been studied for various health benefits, there is limited research specifically on mushroom coffee. Much of the existing research is on whole mushrooms or animal studies, not brewed mushroom coffee.

If you’re looking for similar health benefits that have been attributed to mushroom coffee, start incorporating nutrients that are well-supported by scientific research, such as B vitamins for energy, magnesium for cognitive function, curcumin for its antioxidant properties, and vitamin D for immune support.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The products sold on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided by this website is not a substitute for medical advice.