Tea is an enjoyable way to access functional mushrooms’ health-promoting powers, whether you need something soothing like Reishi before bed or something stimulating like Lion’s Mane for cognitive enhancement. But selecting the correct blend, dosage and brewing method are key in producing satisfying cups that meet individual goals – and one key adjustment can make all the difference in brewing time: learning when and for how long.

Reishi, Chaga and Lion’s Mane teas are well known for their immune-support, relaxation and focus-enhancing benefits; these require longer steeps to release their compounds fully. On the other hand, culinary mushrooms such as Shiitake and Turkey Tail require shorter steep times but still pack an umami punch!

Start small when creating mushroom tea for maximum success: prepare two or three cups at first and experiment with different flavors and dosages, while keeping an accurate record of ingredients used. Next, add whatever amount of dried or powdered mushroom pieces or slices you wish for the ideal mushroom tea experience.

Once the mushrooms have been added, bring the water to a boil before lowering to simmer. As more time passes by, your tea will become stronger – aim for 45-60 minutes for medicinal teas and 20-30 for culinary blends.

An overly hot boiling process degrades beneficial compounds present in mushrooms, so be careful not to overdo your brew. Failing to strain before drinking can leave unwanted sediment behind in your beverage and diminish its flavor clarity.

Starting small is the key to mushroom tea experimentation; as it takes time for its effects to kick in and it can be challenging gauging how strong each cup should be.

Once you’ve mastered basic brewing, customizing your mushroom tea with fun add-ins is easy and makes for an extra cozy and flavorful drink. Honey can bring sweetness, lemon brings freshness and ginger adds warmth and spice. And for an extra soothing sip, adding oat or plant milk creates creamy mushroom tea that soothes body and soul alike!