Ganoderma (Lingzhi in China, Reishi in Japan) is an ancient medicinal mushroom with a rich tradition in traditional medicine, long revered for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating properties. When combined with functional mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane or Chaga for coffee blends, these therapeutic benefits become even greater.

There has only ever been one human pregnancy study on whole mushrooms which suggests they could help reduce pregnancy-induced hypertension and oversized babies, but even this doesn’t prove they are safe to drink in concentrated extract form – something mushroom coffee doesn’t do due to how the body responds both to caffeine as well as any concentrated extracts used – many brands don’t disclose how concentrated these extracts are.

Even when consumed at safe concentration levels, drinking herbal concentrates in late pregnancy may interfere with sleep patterns and cause digestive distress. They should also not be taken if there are medical conditions such as an autoimmune disorder, bleeding issues, or taking immunosuppressant medications – even though their concentration levels might be safe.

If you must enjoy mushroom coffee, be sure the label clearly specifies which kind and how potent its extract is – such as “Ganoderma lucidum fruiting body 8:1 extract” or “hericium erinaceus pure mycelium powder”. Look for third-party testing that ensures purity and heavy metal screening – something especially essential with wild-harvested mushrooms. If a product label indicates it should not be taken during pregnancy, this may be too potent; culinary mushroom powders and fresh mushrooms added directly into food can offer safe yet effective benefits while expecting. As an alternative, decaffeinated coffee or herbal tea with rooibos or ginger may provide occasional treats as alternatives.