Mushrooms have long been a beloved staple in kitchens across the world, cherished for their delicious umami flavor and packed full of nutrients. Prized for their healing properties, mushrooms are known to contain antioxidants and immune-enhancing compounds. Their health benefits have made mushroom coffee all the rage online and in health blogs; its fans claim it can improve mental and physical performance, boost immunity, lower stress, and help with weight loss.

Some of these claims have been verified through animal and test tube studies, however mushroom coffee has yet to undergo rigorous clinical or human research studies and it remains unknown whether drying, extracting and brewing process leaves intact any health benefits from dried mushrooms.

Most mushroom coffee blends include ground coffee beans mixed with extracts from medicinal mushrooms like chaga, lion’s mane, reishi and turkey tail; these medicinal varieties have been specifically selected due to their perceived or actual health benefits.

Mushroom coffee has a similar earthy, nutty taste and aroma as regular coffee, yet has less caffeine than its counterpart. Most brands promote mushroom coffee as a healthy alternative and tout its purported benefits like reduced stress levels, better sleep patterns and increased energy.

There is evidence that adaptogens, the kind of mushroom found in chaga and lion’s mane mushroom coffee, may help reduce your body’s production of cortisol (the stress hormone), while preclinical studies in mice indicate reishi and turkey tail mushroom coffee can provide restful sleep by lowering blood pressure.

Consuming mushroom coffee containing only low doses of these species may not be as beneficial as simply taking high-quality mushroom supplements. Furthermore, some people have reported digestive issues from drinking mushroom coffees containing lower dosages; and certain species, like chaga and turkey tail mushrooms can contain high levels of oxalates that increase your risk for kidney stones. Consult your physician before making changes to your diet, especially if taking medications.