Have you seen people drinking something that looks like coffee but is actually made from mushrooms? This beverage, commonly referred to as mushroom coffee, has recently made waves in the wellness world and many tout its many health benefits – including increasing focus and energy, alleviating stress and improving sleep. Though some claims seem valid, there hasn’t been enough research done into this trend for much clarity on it either way.

Mushroom coffee is usually composed of medicinal mushroom extracts like chaga, lion’s mane, reishi and cordyceps mixed with ground coffee beans to form a unique beverage with half the caffeine of regular coffee brew. Some claim this beverage can reduce jitteriness and improve sleep quality. Most users describe its taste as nutty or earthy instead of mushroomy as this results from drying, processing and brewing in similar manner as regular coffee, thus losing some flavor during this process.

Though nutty and earthy might put off some people, I’ve had the chance to try mushroom coffee myself and can attest to its delicious taste. It makes an ideal alternative to sweeter fruitier beverages commonly offered at coffee shops and cafes – plus, making your own mushroom coffee at home is simple!

However, mushroom coffee can often cost twice as much as traditional beverages like coffee and tea. Although most nutritionists favored mushroom coffee as an option for us to consider, we should first consult with our doctor and healthcare provider before making a switch – it is crucial that any supplement not studied widely be discussed beforehand,” advises Sheri Berger a registered dietician who specializes in plant-forward, balanced and sustainable nutrition.

Mushrooms used in this brew can sometimes be hard on the digestive system, particularly for people who suffer from kidney issues or are sensitive to grains. Furthermore, chaga mushrooms contain high concentrations of oxalates which increases risk for kidney stones.

No matter the benefits or drawbacks, mushroom coffee remains popular with most who try it and most find that they enjoy it. It may help those suffering from anxiety or difficulty sleeping as well as those looking to reduce caffeine consumption.

Always approach mushroom coffee’s purported health benefits with caution; research on it remains limited, with many claims being anecdotal or unproven in scientific studies. Therefore, for optimal health benefits it’s wise to combine your daily mug of fungi with other nutritious food and beverages such as fresh fruits or green leafy veggies in order to stay on track with health goals.