Reishi mushrooms have long been used as part of traditional Chinese medicine to increase longevity and overall wellbeing, but scientific research on them remains limited. Reishi coffee — made by mixing instant coffee with powdered Ganoderma lucidum) — has recently gained popularity for providing an energy boost without the side effects associated with caffeine use. TODAY conducted interviews with several experts to see whether mushroom coffee lives up to its promise.

Mushrooms are considered adaptogens–plants that help the body adapt to stress. According to nutritionist and holistic health coach Laila Ouldibbat, manufacturers of Reishi Coffee claim it contains half as much caffeine as regular coffee, possibly helping reduce anxiety levels while potentially decreasing caffeine-induced jitters.

Wellness fungi such as chaga, cordyceps and lion’s mane have long been believed to help boost immunity and neutralize acidity from black coffee, all without producing portobellos-style mushrooms! Instead, these wellness fungi boast a bland earthy flavor.

Although additional research needs to be completed, laboratory studies suggest reishi mushrooms stimulate natural killer cells, which target abnormal or cancerous cells according to reports by Cochrane Library. Other lab studies indicate they could slow or stop tumor growth as well as enhance chemotherapy treatments’ efficacy.

To ensure you’re receiving enough reishi, look for supplements with fruiting bodies of reishi grown on grain substrates rather than mycelium grown there; mycelium provides less immune-enhancing triterpenes and beta glucans that may benefit you. Atlas+ Latter Superblend features such a combination, pairing reishi with lion’s mane, cordyceps and other mushrooms for maximum immune boost potential.