If you’ve been following functional food trends, chances are mushroom tea has crossed your radar. Popular for its purported euphoric effects, stress-relief abilities or immune-enhancing benefits, this beverage has taken the wellness industry by storm. But can it really live up to its claims and how can I prepare my own?

Mushroom tea is an infusion created by steeping mushrooms or mushroom powder in hot water for several minutes before straining out any sediment or debris. You can make your own at home using a mug and kettle, or buy pre-made blends packaged as tea bags from stores.

Each variety of mushroom will affect what benefits a beverage provides; each variety offers unique advantages. For instance, adaptogenic mushrooms can help your body manage different forms of stress. Others provide micronutrients like Vitamin D that may otherwise be difficult to obtain through diet alone. And of course, many types of fungi contain antioxidants which support healthy immune systems.

There are various varieties of mushroom tea available that you can mix directly into your beverage to give yourself an added nutritional boost. These options may include chaga, reishi and lion’s mane mushrooms which have all been studied extensively to potentially strengthen immunity.

When making mushroom tea at home, quality products should always be used. From whole mushrooms to powder, only choose high-grade ingredients to ensure that your drink has the desired effects.

Consideration should also be given to how mushroom tea should not replace meals; while enjoying one may be tasty and filling on its own, you should still focus on getting most of your nutrition through whole food sources.

While mushroom tea can be enjoyed alone, many prefer adding additional flavors and herbal blends for added energy and wellness benefits. Common choices for mushroom tea herbal blends include hibiscus tea, chai, and green tea.

Mushroom tea is easy and enjoyable for just about anyone to make and consume, simply by placing any leftover tea in the fridge after each use and only brewing as much as is required each day. Too much may cause bitter flavors or make you queasy if overdone; while mushroom tea can make an excellent addition to any wellness regime, always consult your physician prior to starting any new supplement regimen as they can assist in finding an ideal combination of herbs and supplements tailored specifically towards you.