Addition of functional mushrooms to coffee can not only accentuate its earthy, delicate flavors, but also increase its health benefits. Maitake may help regulate blood sugar levels while chaga can neutralize acidity found in coffee while reishi can increase energy, stave off illness and enhance cardiovascular performance.

Polysaccharides and beta-glucans present in mushrooms have been demonstrated to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, support immune system functions, reduce blood pressure and more. People in Asia traditionally used them as part of teas or added them into coffee to enhance both flavor and health benefits.

Make your own DIY Reishi mushroom coffee easily by mixing mushroom powder into ground coffee beans before brewing. Whole bean or ground organic coffee works best as this allows the mushroom extract to be more readily absorbed by your body. For best results, use a spice grinder or food processor to finely ground mushrooms into powder before adding it to your drink.

Many supplement companies now sell mushroom coffee blends that combine cordyceps, chaga, lion’s mane or turkey tail with instant coffee in individual plastic packets for sale. You can easily create your own Reishi mushroom coffee at home using either a coffee grinder or French press.