Benefits of Mushroom Coffee

What is Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee is a combination of adaptogenic (functional) mushrooms and ground coffee beans. These coffee products usually contain medicinal mushroom extracts or powders, but sometimes they also incorporate culinary mushrooms like shiitake.

Some of the most common adaptogenic mushrooms powders used to make ‘mushroom coffee’ include:

• Cordyceps – used for long-lasting energy, increased performance, and to aid in recovery.
• Reishi – used for an immune system boost, to relieve anxiety/stress, get a deeper sleep, and bring your body into balance.
• Chaga – used to fight premature aging and inflammation, sustain energy, support your immune system, and boost brain function.
• Turkey tail – used to aid in digestion, boost your immunity, and help fight disease. 
• Shiitake – used to support a healthy heart and immune system (particularly great for cooking). It is also the most well-known adaptogen because you can find it everywhere. 
• Lion’s mane – used to increase cognitive function, focus, and clarity while working or studying.

What are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are a special category of herbs that ‘boost the vital life force of energy within us.’ With consistent use, they bring our bodies back into homeostasis (balance and stability).

Adaptogens have anti-depressive, anti-fatigue, anti-anxiety, and central nervous system (CNS) stimulating activity. CNS stimulation results in increased energy, alertness, and focus.

Many adaptogens are also considered nootropics, which have been shown to improve memory, creativity, motivation, attention span, and other essential cognitive functions.

If you are consistently anxious, stressed, run down, or lack mental clarity throughout the day (brain fog), incorporating adaptogens (like functional mushrooms) into your daily routine can help significantly. But remember: eating a healthy (mostly plant-based diet) is also essential for energy and optimal brain function.

Benefits/Downsides of Regular Coffee

Regular coffee has a few known benefits, including its high antioxidant content (which helps prevent oxidative stress that can lead to disease). It also allows for the release of the neurotransmitters dopamine and glutamate (which have an uplifting effect on the central nervous system) and increases reaction time, mood, focus, and alertness.

However, drinking coffee (in excess) can also lead to issues like insomnia (messes with our sleep-wake cycle), caffeine crashes/jitters, poor digestion and stomach aches, increased anxiety and high blood pressure, hormone issues, muscle breakdown, and addiction.

Benefits of Adding ‘Mushroom Powders’ to Coffee

Functional mushrooms provide many of the same benefits as coffee, including focus, energy, and alertness. They also contain antioxidants that support immunity and help fight off disease.

When you combine coffee and mushrooms, they work together to balance each other out. Mushroom coffees also tend to contain less caffeine and work to fight off anxiety/jitters and help you sleep better.

Does Mushroom Coffee Taste Like Coffee?

Since the mushrooms are either blended or extracted into coffee, mushroom coffee products typically do not taste like mushrooms. However, the flavor may be stronger/earthier than normal coffee. But you’ll get used to the taste over time – and the added health benefits are worth it!

Best Mushroom Coffee Brands & Where to Buy Them

RYZE is one of the newest and tastiest brands of functional mushroom coffee available. The coffee comes pre-made, so you can take it anywhere. The best part is: you only need hot water to make it.

Their coffee includes adaptogenic mushrooms like cordyceps (for stamina), lion’s mane (for focus), reishi (for stress), shiitake (for immunity), turkey tail (for digestion), and king trumpet (for inflammation). It also contains MCT oil, which provides an additional overall wellness benefit (especially for brain health and function).