Mushrooms have enjoyed an enormous surge of interest and recognition in the wellness community over recent years. Finding mushroom powder, extract, tonics and gummies to help with whatever ails us has never been simpler! And with the rise of “Mushroom Coffee” becoming mainstream, many are adding this beverage into their morning ritual – mixing coffee with dried mushrooms yields a drink said to possess adaptogenic properties and several entrepreneurial companies offer instant coffee, grounds or latte mixes as part of this product offering.

Mushrooms have long been used as medicine, particularly by Chinese and Ayurvedic practitioners. Certain varieties, including Reishi and Cordyceps mushrooms, have long been recognized for their immune-enhancing effects; however, more research must be conducted before conclusively claiming they help with cancer prevention or other conditions.

Studies indicate that certain mushroom varieties possess anti-inflammatory properties. Others, like chaga, have also been proven to lower cholesterol and protect the liver.

People who advocate mushroom coffee claim it can also have stress-relief benefits, thanks to the adaptogens found in mushrooms that help control cortisol levels, which increase with stress. Furthermore, less caffeine in the mix means you won’t experience the jittery energy many experience from drinking too much caffeinated coffee.

However, if you already have high cholesterol or blood pressure, it’s wise to consult with a physician prior to adding mushroom coffee into your diet, particularly if it contains chaga or reishi as these two mushrooms contain high amounts of oxalates which could increase kidney stone risk as well as any kidney or digestive problems such as an intolerance for grains.

Mushrooms may cause stomach upset and inflammation. Some studies have even demonstrated interference with proper blood clotting; and other types such as chaga and turkey tail mushrooms have even been linked with allergies in test-tube studies.

Ultimately, whether mushroom coffee has any health benefits depends on its type and preparation method. Reishi may improve liver health by flushing away waste products from the body while improving liver function and possibly even helping prevent liver diseases, according to animal studies published in Hepatology journal.

But these effects are based on limited trials and evidence; so it’s not clear whether their benefits are real. Also, drinking mushroom coffee won’t likely make a noticeable difference unless other healthy habits such as eating whole foods, getting adequate restful sleep, and exercising regularly are practiced as well. Plus, its combination of less caffeine and stress-relieving properties may not lead to better rest for everyone who consumes it; and, of course, those allergic to mushrooms should avoid it completely.