Assuming you have seen mushroom coffee on social media or your local health food store, or sold as an attractive wellness boost with medicinal mushrooms and extracts added, its popularity may have you intrigued. Though popularized for helping mental focus and immune support, little research exists on their health benefits when consumed as an herbal beverage. While mushrooms are well-regarded for providing flavor in foods like sushi and other savory dishes, consuming it as an herbal beverage might present unique challenges that only time will reveal.

Mushrooms have long been used in cooking, and they have also long been recognized as adaptogens that can improve our body’s response to stress. Common medicinal mushrooms include Chaga, Reishi, Turkey tail and Cordyceps which have all shown promise as immunomodulatory effects in preclinical studies.

As most human studies on medicinal mushrooms focus on just one type and high dosages, there is insufficient evidence of their benefits when mixed with coffee at typical serving sizes and at typical serving sizes. Most mushroom coffee claims are supported by research using isolated mushroom extracts rather than powders or extracts brewed together with coffee.

Mushroom-infused coffees available on the market tend to be blends that combine mushroom powder with traditional coffee beans, and are usually advertised as having less caffeine than traditional coffee, yet some amount remains present as all coffee beans contain some amount of psychoactive stimulants such as caffeine. People sensitive to caffeine or who have health conditions such as heart issues may experience negative side effects from even small doses such as anxiety, rapid heart rate or upset stomach.

Mushroom coffee may seem to be safe for most adults, however those suffering from digestive or kidney issues should avoid it as the mushroom extracts used can be difficult to process by some bodies, potentially compounding these conditions further.

People allergic to mushrooms should also exercise caution with this drink. Although it doesn’t contain significant allergens, its components could contain similar ones found in other edible mushrooms like lupins, rye, and wheat.

While evidence for mushroom coffee’s supposed benefits remains lacking, most adults consider it safe for consumption. While it could potentially benefit those unable to consume regular coffee due to sensitivities, prior to making any significant dietary or supplement changes it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider as they can offer guidance as to how best incorporate mushroom coffee brews into your routine and recommend safe doses that fit you individually; additionally they can point you toward resources which provide support groups specifically dedicated to chronic fatigue patients.