Mushroom coffee has quickly become a trendy functional beverage that blends traditional coffee with extracts from medicinal mushrooms, promising cognitive, immune and energy benefits. But is all of its hype worth its extra cost? In this article we take a closer look.

Mushrooms have long been used in Chinese and Indian herbal medicine as adaptogens – substances which help the body cope with stress more effectively, leading to better overall health. Mushrooms contain numerous essential vitamins and nutrients like potassium, B vitamins, vitamin D as well as other essential amino acids and are rich in potassium content as well. A growing range of products available on the market from supplements and tonics to gummies have mushroom as part of their formula; many target anti-aging and immune system enhancement properties while others boast anti-inflammatory qualities or cholesterol reduction properties.

Mushroom coffee has gained in popularity thanks to its combination of two common substances and lower caffeine content than regular cups of joe. This may make it a useful solution for those trying to cut back but find it hard to completely abandon caffeine intake, though people should keep in mind that even this alternative option still contains caffeine; they should monitor their consumption carefully if any health conditions arise as a result of drinking the beverage.

Mushroom coffee is made by drying and extracting dried mushrooms to draw out their active compounds, then mixing the extracts with regular coffee beans for a beverage that looks and tastes very much like regular coffee. You can buy mushroom coffee as powder to mix into boiling water or use as you would normal coffee to brew.

There is an array of mushrooms used to make mushroom coffee. Chaga and cordyceps mushrooms, in particular, have long been revered for their anti-cancer benefits; while others such as lion’s mane and turkey tail can support digestive functions. Reishi and chaga allegedly possess anti-allergenic properties (though animal studies have yet to validate this claim).

While some claims made for mushroom coffee may sound promising, more human studies need to be completed in order to confirm its advantages. At present, individuals would likely benefit more by including whole mushrooms into their diet or continuing with their regular brands of coffee than spending double the cost for this beverage that doesn’t offer any tangible health advantages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals speak to their healthcare professional before beginning any form of complementary and alternative medicine – including mushroom coffee. This advice applies especially if taking any medication or suffering from an existing health condition. Incorporating holistic approaches into their wellness plans such as getting enough restful sleep, regular physical activity and eating a nutritional diet.