Mushroom coffee, brewed coffee made from ground mushroom extract, has become increasingly popular due to its purported health benefits. According to studies and claims regarding mushroom coffee, its consumption can help strengthen immune systems, promote gut health, and manage stress more effectively – though not all these claims have been supported by research studies and whole mushrooms are far better sources of these nutrients than extracts used in mushroom coffee beverages.

As with any dietary supplement, before trying mushroom coffee it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider first. Before taking mushroom coffee you should check to ensure you don’t have an allergy to any of the medicinal mushrooms commonly used as ingredients in mushroom coffee as well as consider your current medical conditions and medications; some have blood-thinning properties and could interfere with certain medications; while chaga mushrooms contain high levels of oxalates which increase kidney stone risk.

Medicinal mushrooms have long been used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses and symptoms. Common medicinal mushrooms used to make mushroom coffee — chaga, lion’s mane, turkey tail and cordyceps — contain beta-glucans and polysaccharides that support immune health while providing antioxidant protection as well as compounds such as indoles and polyphenols with potential anti-aging and heart health benefits.

Though there has been promising evidence of the health benefits of mushrooms, more research on humans should be completed before reaching definitive conclusions. Still, many people enjoy sipping mushroom coffee as an alternative to regular coffee due to its delicious flavor and nutritional advantages.

Comparative to an average cup of joe which typically contains over 300 milligrams of caffeine, mushroom coffee contains much less. As such, it may be safer for most consumers; however if you are sensitive to caffeine or have trouble sleeping then mushroom coffee might not be ideal for you.

Proponents of mushroom coffee claim that its adaptogens can help relieve stress by decreasing cortisol release during stressful moments and improve sleep quality by relaxing muscles and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, mushroom coffee may support cardiovascular health, prevent chronic diseases, and boost cognitive performance.

Overall, most claims surrounding mushroom coffee remain unverifiable, though many find the beverage enjoyable and beneficial. If you want additional health benefits beyond what traditional coffee offers, try including whole mushrooms in your diet instead of purchasing mushroom supplements; doing this may save money as well as being cheaper than purchasing mushroom coffee (which can cost twice the cost).