As its name implies, mushroom coffee is made by mixing medicinal mushrooms such as chaga, lion’s mane and turkey tail with regular coffee and subjecting them to drying and extraction processes to release their beneficial compounds. The resultant beverage resembles traditional coffee but with an unusual flavor resulting from this unique process. Mushroom coffee has gained notoriety for improving focus and decreasing anxiety as well as immune-boosting benefits and potential cardiovascular benefits; however human studies on mushroom coffee remain scarce so many experts advise against drinking it until more research has been conducted on this beverage.

Medicinal mushrooms contain antioxidant properties that help prevent illness and protect the body. They contain polysaccharides like beta-glucans that act as prebiotics to maintain gut health, reduce blood sugar, cholesterol and triglyceride levels in diabetic mice and can even alter cortisol levels to regulate stress hormone production.

Chaga mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it stimulates white blood cells and assists with antibody production – often used as an effective treatment option against autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease.

Other mushrooms, like cordyceps and reishi, possess anti-allergenic effects that can inhibit mast cell activation which is responsible for allergic reactions. Therefore, these types of mushrooms may be used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Mushroom coffee is typically composed of equal parts coffee and mushrooms, providing less caffeine than traditional cups of coffee – which may be beneficial for those sensitive to caffeine, who can experience side effects like an upset stomach and jitters from its use.

Though mushroom coffee is generally safe, if you have any underlying medical conditions it’s wise to consult with your physician prior to beginning to take it. Some mushroom extracts can interfere with medications like blood thinners and pain relievers while some varieties of mushrooms increase bleeding risk by slowing clotting time.

Mushroom coffee should not be consumed before bedtime and is not recommended for children or people with digestive issues. Furthermore, those allergic to mushrooms should stay clear as this beverage could trigger itching and swelling of lips – symptoms to look out for are itching and reddening of lips.