Mushroom coffee sounds funky, and rightly so. They’re indeed not your typical cup of joe. But if you’re seeking enhanced focus, more energy, and a powered-up immune system, pairing (or replacing) your morning latte with mushrooms may be a good idea. These thoughtful beverages, which supplement coffee with mushrooms like reishi, lion’s mane, and chaga, offer a lower dose of caffeine alongside a higher amount of micronutrients. Because of that, and depending on the exact combination of mushrooms, they offer additional perks beyond the typical energy surge, helping to offset fatigue throughout the day or allowing you to concentrate for a longer period of time.
Whether you choose to pair your mushroom with the real thing or swap coffee entirely for a new flavour, these expert-recommended mushroom coffees are a good place to start.
What is mushroom coffee?
Mushroom coffee is a type of coffee that’s paired with mushrooms like chaga, lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps. Depending on the brand and blend, mushroom coffee may offer roughly 40 to 50mg of caffeine per cup, which is about half that found in a cup of coffee. And, while mushrooms themselves don’t contain caffeine, “they can still provide a natural energy boost due to their adaptogenic and nutrient-dense properties,” says Dr Powell. “Certain mushrooms, like cordyceps, enhance oxygen utilisation and cellular energy—helping to improve stamina and reduce fatigue.” Meanwhile, she says, lion’s mane can support cognitive function by stimulating nerve growth factors, which improves focus and mental clarity.
However, the flavour can require an adjustment. “Mushroom coffee doesn’t taste exactly like your typical black coffee,” says Maeng. “Depending on the brand, it can have a very earthy taste, especially if it doesn’t have any other flavour added to it.”
Is mushroom coffee good for you?
Generally, yes, mushroom coffee is good for you. “Mushroom coffee provides more nutrients than a regular cup of coffee, as mushrooms are full of antioxidants and other nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress,” says Maeng.
And, although mushroom coffee tends to be lower in caffeine, “it can potentially support cognitive function better than coffee, improve stress adaptation, and provide sustained energy without the caffeine-related jitters,” she says. She recommends it for those who want to cut back their coffee consumption due to anxiety, caffeine-related jitters, and sleep issues.
What are the health benefits?
As we mentioned, mushroom coffee can deliver key nutrients, help you feel more energised, and may support the immune system. But it may offer a multitude of benefits beyond that, too, thanks in part to its emphasis on adaptogenic mushrooms. A mainstay in traditional Eastern medicine, these mushrooms “help the body adapt to stress, support overall well-being, and provide functional benefits without overstimulating the nervous system,” says Dr. Powell.
On top of that, “many different types of mushrooms—notably chaga, shiitake, reishi, lion’s mane, turkey tail, and oyster mushrooms—are high in compounds called terpenoids,” says Maeng. These compounds have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support immune function.
Finally, mushroom coffee may aid in physical performance and recovery. "Cordyceps mushrooms, in particular, have been shown to boost energy by supporting adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, synthesis in the mitochondria, which is the primary energy source for our cells," Maeng explains. "Additionally, cordyceps can enhance oxygen utilisation by improving lung function and increasing VO2 max, which can be particularly beneficial for endurance and overall physical performance."
Which types of mushrooms are in mushroom coffee?
Not all mushrooms are created; each brings a different set of nutrients and compounds to your cup. The most common types include:
- Chaga: This is brimming with antioxidants, which, Maeng says, can help offset oxidative stress and support the immune system.
- Cordyceps: These mushrooms are “thought to boost energy and physical performance by enhancing oxygen utilisation and ATP production, which are essential for sustained endurance,” says Maeng.
- Reishi: An adaptogenic mushroom, this is used to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Meet the experts
- Jennifer Maeng, RD, a nutritionist in New York, NY and founder of Chelsea Nutrition.
- Lauren Powell, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician and culinary medicine specialist.
This story first appeared on Vogue.com
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