Mushroom coffee has quickly become one of the hottest health beverages, popular on social media for its purported energy-boosting, mental clarity boosting, digestion improving and immune strengthening properties. But just how much does mushroom coffee cost compared to regular coffee?

Although not for everyone, elixirs should certainly be considered if you want to switch up your morning cup of joe. Here’s what it offers:

Mushroom coffee is often created from a blend of ground mushrooms (such as cordyceps, reishi, turkey tail and lion’s mane) combined with ground coffee beans to replicate the flavor profile of traditional coffee beverages. Some brands come as drinks while others can be purchased as powdered mixes that you add hot water or use an espresso maker (drip machine, French press or pour-over method).

Mushroom coffee products utilize adaptogen mushrooms that have been widely known to promote focus and stress relief, while at the same time providing essential nutrition such as antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and strengthen immunity. Furthermore, mushrooms provide ample sources of potassium, vitamin D and selenium as well as helping improve eye health.

However, there is insufficient evidence to back many of the claims mushroom coffee manufacturers make about their products. Whole mushrooms may provide similar health benefits at lower cost. Furthermore, the fungus found in mushroom coffee may aggravate kidney or digestive issues for those already struggling with them; some such as Ryze and Laird use chaga mushrooms which contain high concentrations of oxalates which increases your risk of kidney stones.

Importantly, it should also be remembered that mushroom coffee may or may not work for someone with specific medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Furthermore, due to FDA restrictions limiting dietary supplement regulation, always consult your healthcare professional prior to trying any new supplements or coffees.

However, mushroom coffees contain significantly less caffeine than their coffee-like counterparts; this can be helpful for individuals trying to cut back on caffeine consumption or those with conditions such as digestive or cardiovascular disorders that make them sensitive to stimulants like caffeine.