Tea is an indispensable component of health-conscious lifestyles, from yerba mate and golden milk, detox tea and matcha. More recently, mushroom tea has gained increasing attention; featuring functional mushrooms such as lion’s mane, cordyceps and chaga in an earthy yet flavorful tea that claims to increase energy levels, cognitive function and immunity – but does the hype live up? We consulted registered dietitians for insight on this fungi-infused beverage trend.

As opposed to chocolate bars and gummies that rely on mushroom extracts as their base, tea allows users to choose their ingredients freely, offering more familiar product experiences, discrete packaging, and dosing instructions–in addition to being suitable for those with dietary restrictions who cannot consume mushrooms.

When shopping for mushroom tea, be sure to look for labels identifying which species were used in each batch. While recipes vary slightly, most blends usually include either reishi, lion’s mane, or cordyceps mushrooms along with herbs and spices for optimal effects. While their benefits vary widely between batches, all contain polysaccharides–organosulfur compounds that stimulate immune response while increasing cellular energy as described by Foroutan.

Chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus) are frequently added to mushroom teas due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them a superfood that reduces free radical damage that contributes to aging. Chaga mushroom tea fits with holistic approaches to wellness that appeal to health-conscious consumers in Asia Pacific region, where an ever increasing population seek natural methods of supporting overall wellbeing.

The COVID-19 pandemic raised awareness about foods and supplements designed to bolster immunity, which may account for the surge in mushroom tea sales. More research needs to be conducted into how mushrooms affect human bodies to fully comprehend their role in health and wellness.

Starting off right when it comes to mushroom tea preparation is key. For optimal taste and efficacy, select organic non-GMO varieties of your desired herbs. Ideal mushroom powder will have been through sufficient processing to soften its cell walls, making it easier for your body to absorb and use its beneficial compounds. Either way, boiling water and adding your desired mushrooms is all it takes for this tea to become delicious and medicinally valuable. Once finished, store in an airtight glass thermos or travel mug so as not to risk heat degrading its quality or diminishing its medicinal benefits. Make sure that you store the mushroom tea safely before refrigerating for later consumption, or enjoy it within days after making. For optimal results, drink your mushroom tea within several days after brewing it – but don’t fret if it doesn’t work the first time; simply re-steep your herbs and create another batch; eventually you will discover the perfect combination of ingredients for yourself!