Recently on social media you may have come across people drinking something called mushroom coffee – an innovative drink made up of traditional coffee combined with extracts of medicinal mushrooms that is said to provide energy benefits without the crash that often follows regular caffeine consumption. But exactly what does mushroom coffee contain, and does it really deliver on its promises?

Mushroom coffee is similar to regular coffee, but instead of using beans as its main component it contains ground up extracts of various types of mushrooms – commonly used medicinal varieties include chaga, lion’s mane, reishi and cordyceps as adaptogenic mushrooms with specific healing properties.

There are various mushroom coffee brands out there, and not all of them are created equal. The highest-quality options will have been tested for purity and produced using an open manufacturing process with ethical sourcing practices in mind. Also be wary of any hidden ingredients or possible side effects when purchasing coffee from these sources.

One of the most exciting claims made about mushroom coffee is that it improves cognitive function. According to proponents, its combination with coffee and adaptogenic mushrooms may increase mental clarity, lower stress levels, and enhance memory – although more research needs to be conducted before conclusively confirming these effects.

Mushroom coffee has also been touted for its anti-inflammation benefits. Inflammation is the body’s response to physical or environmental stressors such as poor sleep, air pollution or high intensity exercise; mushroom coffee contains beta glucans which may bolster your immune system against these aggressors.

Mushroom coffee can also provide prebiotic fibers that feed your gut’s good bacteria. This could aid with digestive issues like bloating and irregularity; certain mushrooms such as turkey tail and reishi are even known to reduce oxalates levels in blood and help prevent kidney stones.

Problematically, however, mushroom coffee does not have clinical trials behind its benefits. Though likely safe for most individuals, there’s no assurance it will have the same health advantages as whole mushrooms would provide. Furthermore, its price can often double that of traditional coffee drinks.

Keep in mind that to reap the potential health benefits of mushroom coffee, whole mushrooms should be added to your diet rather than taking an extract. You’ll get more bang for your buck by including them in meals like smoothies or overnight oats. Czerwony advises starting off slowly when trying mushroom coffee and monitoring how your body reacts over time.