Mushroom Coffee: What It Is, Benefits, Taste, and Where to Buy

Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground coffee and medicinal mushroom extracts. The top ingredients typically include coffee beans and functional mushrooms like lion’s mane, chaga, cordyceps, and reishi. Mushroom coffee offers mild cognitive and nutritional benefits, but research has not confirmed that the brewed drink improves weight loss, liver function, gut health, or other medical issues.

Mushroom coffee generally has much less caffeine than regular coffee, with brands ranging from 10 mg to 110 mg per serving and some offering completely caffeine-free formulas. Most people should drink mushroom coffee in the morning and limit intake to 1–2 cups daily to avoid side effects. Mushroom coffee has a light roast flavor with earthy, nutty umami tones and a smooth finish, and it is less acidic than regular coffee.

To make mushroom coffee, just mix mushroom powder with hot water and steep, or choose a ready blend for convenience. Mushroom coffee is pricier than regular coffee because extracts cost more. Mushroom coffee keeps for two years, works for a few hours, and relies mostly on Chinese-grown extracts that are later blended in the U.S.

What is Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee is a blend of regular ground coffee and powdered medicinal mushroom extracts. Common mushroom extracts used in mushroom coffee include lion’s mane, cordyceps, reishi, and chaga. Chaga mushroom coffee is the most popular type, making up about 28.5% of all mushroom extract products in the world in 2022, according to Grand View Research 2024.

Mushroom coffee originated during World War II in 1940s Finland, where Chaga mushrooms were brewed as a substitute due to coffee shortages. Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in Asia, but the modern mushroom-coffee blend was popularized in the 2010s by brands like Four Sigmatic.

The different forms of mushroom coffee include instant powder, ground coffee blends, K-cups, ready-to-drink bottles, and mushroom extract add-ins. Instant mushroom coffee powder mixes dissolve in hot or cold water, ground blends are brewed like regular coffee, capsules are designed for use in Keurig machines, and bottled drinks provide on-the-go functionality.

Mushroom coffee is typically dark brown in powder form and brews into a deep black liquid. It looks similar to regular coffee but may have a slightly lighter or earthier tone. Mushroom coffee usually dissolves completely when mixed but can leave light sediment depending on the brand.

The terms medicinal mushroom coffee, adaptogenic mushroom coffee, functional mushroom coffee, and nootropic mushroom coffee overlap but are not identical. All refer to mushroom-infused coffee, but each term emphasizes different benefits; medicinal for healing, adaptogenic for stress, functional for wellness, and nootropic for cognitive enhancement, as shown below.

Mushroom coffee is considered a functional beverage with health benefits, not a controlled substance. Unlike psychoactive, psychedelic, or psilocybin mushrooms, mushroom coffee is legal, does not make you “high,” contains no illegal compounds, and is sold nationwide through major grocery stores like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods.

What is Mushroom Coffee Made Of?

Mushroom coffee is made of instant or ground coffee beans blended with powdered extracts from functional mushrooms. The mushrooms are extracted using water or alcohol, dehydrated, and ground into powder. Some mushroom coffee blends include MCT oil, maca root, or spices, while others feature adaptogens like ashwagandha, L-theanine, vanilla powder, or cardamom for added benefits and flavor. Mushroom coffee typically contains Arabica (Coffea arabica) or Robusta (Coffea canephora) coffee beans.

What are the Ingredients in Mushroom Coffee?

The top nine ingredients used in mushroom coffee, including lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake, maitake, tremella, and enoki, are listed below.

1. Lion’s Mane
2. Chaga
3. Reishi
4. Cordyceps
5. Turkey Tail
6. Shiitake
7. Maitake
8. Tremella
9. Enoki

1. Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane mushroom is a shaggy, white tooth fungus scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus. Lion’s mane works in coffee by blending mild, earthy flavor with robust taste to create a subtle nutty note without overpowering the drink. Lion’s Mane supports cognitive function, enhances memory, and may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, according to emerging clinical research. A 2023 study by Sarah Docherty published in Nutrients found that a single 1.8 g dose of Lion’s Mane mushroom improved reaction speed within 60 minutes and reduced stress after 28 days in healthy young adults.

2. Chaga

The chaga mushroom is a type of fungus that grows mainly on birch trees in cold regions. Chaga mushroom looks like burnt charcoal with bright orange tissue and tastes similar to strong black tea. Chaga mushroom is good for boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. A 2022 study by Weaam Alhallaf from University of Maine published in Molecules showed Chaga mushroom extracts reduce inflammation in immune cells by lowering nitric oxide and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The recommended amount of chaga mushroom is 1 to 2 grams daily in coffee, tea, or supplement form.

3. Reishi

Reishi mushroom is a medicinal fungus scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum and is used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. Reishi mushroom looks like a reddish-brown, glossy, fan-shaped cap with wavy striations and a pale, porous underside. The taste of reishi mushroom is bitter and woody, making it unsuitable for direct eating. A 2023 study from National Taiwan University published in Foods showed Reishi mushroom extract boosts immune function in healthy adults after 84 days. It increased immune cells, improved their balance, and raised antibody levels without adverse effects.

4. Cordyceps

Cordyceps mushroom is a parasitic fungus that belongs to the sac fungi group and is scientifically classified as Cordyceps. The cordyceps mushroom grows from underground insects, forming a thin stalk with a dark or orange fruiting body. The cordyceps mushroom tastes earthy and bitter. Cordyceps mushroom supports immune health, according to a 2024 study titled "A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the effects of Cordyceps militaris beverage on the immune response in healthy adults."

5. Turkey Tail

Turkey Tail mushroom is scientifically named Trametes versicolor. Turkey Tail resembles a fan-shaped mushroom with concentric rings of brown, tan, black, or white, like turkey feathers. The taste of Turkey Tail mushroom is described as mild and slightly bitter. Turkey Tail mushroom supports immune function and has been traditionally used for its health benefits, according to a 2012 study published in ISRN Oncology. The research from University of Minnesota found Turkey Tail extract increased natural killer cell activity and enhanced immune cell counts in women with breast cancer.

6. Shiitake

Shiitake mushroom is an edible fungus scientifically named Lentinula Edodes. Shiitake mushroom looks like an umbrella-shaped brown cap measuring 2 to 4 inches across. Its taste is bold, savory, and often described as rich and meaty. Shiitake mushrooms support immune function, heart health, and fight inflammation due to their bioactive compounds. A 2015 study published in Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that healthy adults who ate 5 or 10 grams of dried shiitake mushrooms every day for four weeks showed stronger immune systems.

7. Maitake

The Maitake mushroom is a polypore type mushroom scientifically named Grifola frondosa. Maitake mushroom looks like a cluster of wavy, fan-shaped caps that resemble a hen's tail, with gray-brown tops and white undersides. The Maitake mushroom tastes earthy and has a crunchy texture with a flavor similar to hearty game meat. Maitake mushrooms are composed of about 70–80% carbohydrates and 13–21% protein, according to a 2024 study by Emma Camilleri from University of Malta published in Heliyon. The study found Maitake mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that support immunity, boost metabolism, and enhance overall wellness.

8. Tremella

Tremella mushroom is a type of fungus scientifically named Tremella fuciformis. Tremella mushroom looks like white or yellowish jelly-like fronds, resembling a sea anemone or jellyfish. Tremella mushroom tastes mild and slightly sweet with a crunchy, gelatinous texture. Tremella mushroom functions mainly as a food and traditional medicine, promoting skin hydration and immune health. A 2021 study in International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology by Xia Ma identified Tremella polysaccharides as biologically active compounds with unique structures and broad applications in food, cosmetics, and medicine, including benefits for sub-health conditions.

9. Enoki

Enoki mushroom is a type of edible mushroom scientifically named Flammulina velutipes. The Enoki mushroom looks distinctive with long, thin white stems and small clustered caps. It tastes mild, crisp, and slightly sweet. The benefits of Enoki mushroom include enhancing immune function, protecting heart health, improving brain function, and aiding in weight loss and digestive health. A 2020 study called “Application of Enoki Mushroom Stem Wastes as Functional Ingredients in Goat Meat Nuggets” found that Enoki mushroom extract had strong antioxidant power, lots of fiber, and healthy plant compounds.

Is Mushroom Coffee Good For You?

Yes, mushroom coffee is generally good for most healthy people as it might help focus, lower stress, and aid better sleep. Mushroom coffee contains adaptogens like lion’s mane or cordyceps, which support cognitive function and immune health. A 2024 study published in Pharmaceuticals by Katarzyna Kała from Jagiellonian University Medical College found that adding Cordyceps militaris and Hericium erinaceus to coffee increases essential minerals, including magnesium, zinc, copper, sodium, potassium, and calcium.

Mushroom coffee is more nutritionally and functionally beneficial than regular coffee, according to a 2024 Jagiellonian University study. Despite these nutritional advantages, brewed mushroom coffee lacks direct evidence supporting benefits for weight loss, liver health, gut support, or medical outcomes. Most health claims about reducing cortisol, lowering cholesterol, or helping with inflammation in mushroom coffee come from studies on isolated mushroom extracts, not brewed mushroom coffee.

What Does the Science Say About the Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee?

Below are scientific findings that support the possible health benefits linked to mushroom coffee ingredients. The evidence comes from specific mushrooms, not mushroom coffee itself, and is based on small human trials or animal and cell studies.

• Enhanced Energy and Focus: A 2023 study by Docherty and colleagues in Nutrients found that people who took Lion’s Mane mushroom improved how fast they finished a brain test just 60 minutes after taking it, and felt less stressed after 28 days.
• Reduced Inflammation: A 2022 study in Molecules by Weaam Alhallaf from University of Maine showed that Chaga mushroom extract lowered inflammation by cutting down harmful substances and calming overactive immune signals in lab tests.
• Improved Gut Health: A 2024 review published in Foods and Nutrition Research by Great Iruoghene Edo found that mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Reishi contain fibers that help good gut bacteria grow and keep digestion healthy.
• Boosted Immune System: A 2023 clinical trial published in Foods by Shiu-Nan Chen and team from National Taiwan University showed that people who took Reishi mushroom for 84 days had more healthy immune cells and higher antibody levels, helping their bodies stay protected.
• Improved Mood: A 2015 trial published in Biomedical Research found that people who took 2 g/day of Lion’s Mane mushroom extract for 4 weeks reported significantly lower scores on depression and anxiety scales compared to placebo, with improvements in concentration and mood.

Does mushroom coffee work? Yes, mushroom coffee does work for individuals sensitive to caffeine by reducing caffeine content per cup. It adds antioxidants and nutrients from Lion’s Mane and Reishi to support focus and strengthen immunity. However, existing research focuses on coffee and isolated mushroom extracts, not mushroom coffee itself. No clinical trials confirm benefits for blood glucose, bloating, acid reflux, fat loss, or blood pressure. Mushroom coffee offers a nutritious, lower-caffeine option, but broader health benefits lack scientific validation.

Is Mushroom Coffee Safe?

Yes, mushroom coffee is safe as a dietary supplement but is not FDA-approved, as the FDA does not approve supplements. Products like coffee and mushroom powders are classified as foods or supplements, not drugs. These are allowed to be sold if ingredients are GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), properly labeled, manufactured in GMP-compliant facilities, and undergo third-party testing. Consumers should avoid brands making illegal health claims or selling without a certificate of analysis.

The safety guidelines for mushroom coffee recommend starting with small amounts to test tolerance and avoiding late consumption to prevent sleep disruption. Check the product labels for caffeine levels, mushroom types, and third-party testing certificates. Consult a healthcare provider before using mushroom coffee if you have allergies, autoimmune conditions, kidney or liver issues, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications, and stop immediately if severe symptoms occur.

Mushroom coffee can interact with medications, especially antidepressants, blood thinners, blood pressure meds, diabetes drugs, and immunosuppressants. According to preclinical studies, certain mushrooms like reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, and cordyceps influence liver enzymes and neurotransmitters, which may affect how these drugs work. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before consuming mushroom coffee with any medication to avoid adverse interactions.

How Much Caffeine is in Mushroom Coffee?

The amount of caffeine in an 8 oz (237 ml) cup of mushroom coffee varies widely depending on the brand, mushroom ratio, bean variety, and brewing method. While many popular brands contain about 45 to 50 milligrams (mg), levels can range from as low as 10 mg to over 110 mg.

The caffeine amount in mushroom coffee is roughly half that of a regular coffee cup, which typically has between 95 to 200 milligrams. Mushroom coffee provides a moderate caffeine boost lower than regular coffee but higher than decaf.

However, not all mushroom coffee has caffeine. Some products mix functional mushrooms with coffee beans, while others exclude caffeine entirely by avoiding any caffeine source. For example, Four Sigmatic, La Republica, and Om Mushroom Superfood all offer caffeine-free mushroom beverages.

The following table lists popular mushroom coffee brands along with their serving sizes and caffeine levels for easy comparison.

How Much Mushroom Coffee Can You Drink a Day?

You can drink one to two 8 oz cups of mushroom coffee daily, but actual benefits depend on the amount of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, or Cordyceps in the product. Most manufacturers recommend limiting mushroom coffee to two cups daily to gain benefits without exceeding safe consumption levels.

Drinking too much mushroom coffee causes digestive issues, insomnia, anxiety, and increased heart rate. Exceeding five cups of mushroom coffee per day may trigger stomach upset and caffeine-related symptoms. Consume mushroom coffee in moderation and consult a healthcare provider if you have health conditions or take medication.

When is the Best Time to Drink Mushroom Coffee?

The best time to drink mushroom coffee is in the morning or mid-morning to boost energy and focus. A 2024 study by Ye Zhang from Beijing Sport University published in Nutrients found that caffeine works differently depending on the time of day. The study showed caffeine taken between 6–10 a.m. boosts performance and offsets the morning energy drop. Evening intake between 4–9 p.m. affects the body differently due to circadian rhythms. The worst time to drink mushroom coffee is less than six hours before bedtime.

Can You Drink Mushroom Coffee at Night?

Yes, you can drink mushroom coffee at night, but it depends on your personal caffeine tolerance and sleep sensitivity. Mushroom coffee contains less caffeine and is less likely to disrupt sleep, though sensitive individuals may still experience difficulty. A 2024 randomized clinical crossover trial by Carissa L Gardiner titled "Dose and timing effects of caffeine on subsequent sleep" found that a 100 mg dose of caffeine did not significantly disrupt sleep when taken up to four hours before bedtime. In contrast, the study showed that a 400 mg dose of caffeine caused delayed sleep when consumed within 12 hours of bedtime. Although mushroom coffee is not caffeine free, choosing decaffeinated mushroom blends or drinking hours before bedtime reduces sleep issues and promotes relaxation.

What Does Mushroom Coffee Taste Like?

Mushroom coffee tastes like light roasted coffee with earthy, nutty, and umami notes. Mushroom coffee does not taste like cooked mushrooms. Black mushroom coffee have a subtle soil or toasted nut note, while lattes with milk or sweetener taste nearly identical to regular ones. The aftertaste of mushroom coffee is woody and smooth, with subtle savory notes. It often finishes with mild nuttiness or a hint of sweetness, depending on the mushroom blend.

Lion’s mane coffee tastes earthy and smooth, with a seafood-like flavor that adds umami. Chaga mushroom coffee delivers earthy flavor with slight bitterness and mirrors traditional coffee, enhancing richness. Cordyceps mushroom coffee delivers a sweet, umami taste, while Ryze coffee blends these notes into a mild, nutty, and earthy flavor.

Is Mushroom Coffee Acidic?

No, mushroom coffee is not more acidic than regular coffee. mushroom coffee is actually less acidic because the added mushroom extracts help lower the brew’s overall acidity. It is gentler on sensitive stomachs for this reason, although it is not completely alkaline. Mushroom coffee maintains a pH closer to neutral. This coffee has a smoother taste and less bitterness due to mushroom extracts, which balance flavor without adding sweetness or sugar.

How to Make Mushroom Coffee at Home?

To make mushroom coffee, start by sourcing high-quality mushroom powder or coffee blends, combining equal parts of selected functional mushrooms like lion’s mane, chaga, or reishi. Measure 15 grams, heat 250 ml of filtered water to 175–185°F, and preheat your coffee maker. Add the mushroom powder, pour water, stir or froth, and steep for 6–12 minutes. Press gently, pour, and customize with milk or spices. Follow the steps below on how to make mushroom coffee at home.

1. Get high-quality dried mushroom powder or a mushroom coffee blend from a reputable brands.
2. Combine equal parts of each mushroom powder thoroughly if preparing your own blend.
3. Measure 15 grams (1 tablespoon) of mushroom coffee blend or powder.
4. Take 6 to 8 ounces (about 250 ml) of filtered hot water.
5. Heat water to 175–185°F for optimal extraction and taste.
6. Preheat your coffee maker or cafetiere by filling it with hot water, then discard the water.
7. Place the mushroom coffee blend or powder into your coffee maker or mug.
8. Pour hot water over the mushroom coffee blend.
9. Stir the mixture gently with a spoon or use a frother for smoother texture.
10. Sip the coffee slowly to monitor your body's response.

Where to Buy Mushroom Coffee?

Colipse Coffee is the best place to buy mushroom coffee. At Colipse Coffee, our mushroom coffee blends deliver smooth flavor, adaptogenic benefits, and versatile brewing. Each 8 oz bag includes Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi, pre-ground for drip, pour-over, and French press. Enjoy compostable packaging, free U.S. shipping, and discounts with flexible subscriptions or multi-bag orders.

How Much is Mushroom Coffee?

At Colipse Coffee, our mushroom coffee is priced at $24.99 USD per 8 oz bag, discounted from the regular price of $30.99. Each bag brews approximately 20–22 servings and includes Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi. Multi-bag orders and subscriptions offer additional savings and always ship free in the U.S.

Mushroom coffee is expensive due to costly mushroom extracts, small-batch production, marketing, and a health-focused premium. Manufacturers pay more per pound than for regular coffee beans and incur higher packaging, shipping, and branding expenses. Limited suppliers and consumer demand also raise prices.

Which Mushroom Coffee Brand is the Best?

The best mushroom coffee brand depends on your goal. Choose Colipse for flavor and focus, MUD WTR for calm energy, RYZE for endurance, Venture Pal for metabolism, Shroomi for concentration, and Four Sigmatic for digestion. Each offers unique benefits based on mushroom blends and added ingredients.

Is Mushroom Coffee Better than Regular Coffee?

Mushroom coffee offers added benefits like reduced jitters, improved focus, and immune support due to adaptogenic fungi such as lion’s mane and chaga. Regular coffee provides higher caffeine and stronger stimulation. The main difference is mushroom coffee emphasizes health benefits while regular coffee prioritizes energy and alertness.

How Long Does Mushroom Coffee Last?

Mushroom coffee lasts up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place in a sealed container. Once brewed, drink it within 24 hours if refrigerated. The effects of mushroom compounds like lion’s mane or chaga may last 4–6 hours depending on dosage and individual metabolism.

Where is Mushroom Coffee Produced?

Mushroom coffee is produced by blending imported mushroom extracts, with over 91.7% sourced from China according to 2024 USITC import data. Major brands like Four Sigmatic, RYZE, and MUD\WTR all use Chinese-grown mushrooms from provinces like Fujian, Zhejiang, and Anhui. China dominates global mushroom extract production, accounting for over 94% of the world’s supply, according to Real Mushrooms, the biggest independent U.S. mushroom lab and supplier. Most extracts are processed in massive indoor farms and shipped as powders to the U.S. for blending. North American production at scale is not viable due to cost, land, and certification constraints. Final mushroom coffee products are typically blended and packaged in the U.S. using imported mushroom powders.