Coffee is a beloved beverage with numerous health advantages. Often touted as an excellent source of antioxidants and energy-boosting compounds, people used to worry about its possible harmful side-effects; from stunting growth to heart attack. Today it is clear that drinking coffee can indeed have many healthful benefits if made in moderation and choosing wisely.

The latest trend in coffee is mushroom coffee – an intriguing blend of ground java beans mixed with powdered medicinal mushrooms like chaga, reishi or turkey tail that are believed to have various health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, increasing immunity and helping with sleep. Although claims about mushroom coffee seem promising, more peer-reviewed studies must first be performed before conclusive evidence can be provided regarding its efficacy.

Mushrooms contain immune-enhancing beta glucans that can help you ward off colds or flu, as well as being packed with essential vitamins such as D, Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Zinc etc. Additionally, mushrooms have adaptogenic properties which help alleviate stress anxiety fatigue as well as increase circulation to aid healing of injuries or surgeries.

Medicinal mushrooms have long been an integral component of Eastern Medicine, while Western science only recently started taking note. Before including any supplements or medicinal mushrooms into your diet, always consult with a healthcare provider first as Reishi may interfere with blood-thinning medication and increase risk during surgery; it could also worsen symptoms in those taking immunosuppressant medication for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, IBD or Psoriasis.