Coffee and mushrooms might seem an unlikely combination, yet it has become a global trend. Not just among hipsters; mushroom coffee has quickly gained traction among consumers who prioritize health and wellness while looking to limit caffeine intake or gain energy without its usual spike and crash. So how long has mushroom coffee been around and is it worth giving it a try?

Mushroom coffee combines the robust flavor of black or espresso-based coffee with extracts of various medicinal mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga and Turkey Tail to produce an innovative drink with half the caffeine of traditional coffee and additional bioactive compounds that support brain and immune function – according to brands that produce it. It may also include ground or instant coffee and sweeteners like Stevia or Erythritol for sweetness. Mushroom Coffee brands claim their beverage can even reduce inflammation levels within your body too!

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are among the most frequently found in mushroom coffee, due to their antioxidant properties that may improve sleep quality according to research. Reishi and Turkey tail mushroom extracts offer antiviral, antifungal, and immunity-enhancing qualities while Chaga has been noted as helping lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation (per UCLA Health). Some researchers suggest that adaptogens found within mushrooms could also help ease stress as these contain balancers that counteract cortisol, an stress hormone known to rise during times of anxiety or depression.

As mushroom coffee is still relatively new, its claims have yet to be scientifically established. Nonetheless, a few things appear universally accepted about it: It contains less caffeine than traditional coffee for those watching their intake and has greater anti-inflammatory qualities than most caffeinated drinks. Furthermore, mushroom coffee may boost metabolism and aid weight loss – though further study may be required on that front.

Although mushroom coffee’s potential health benefits are appealing, there are a few key points to remember before diving in headfirst. If you are sensitive to mushrooms, the beverage might not be something you enjoy drinking and those with kidney disease should check the ingredient list to see if any are high in oxalates which could potentially lead to kidney stones (according to Johns Hopkins Medicine).

if you decide to give mushroom coffee a try, start slowly and build up to larger servings gradually. Any time any adverse side effects arise or questions about mushroom coffee arises, please notify your primary care physician right away and notify him/her of all supplements/herbs taken, including mushroom coffee. They can guide your journey toward improved health!