Imagine your morning ritual decided to take a walk on the wild side, swapping concrete jungles for a misty, forest-foraged flavor. That’s the vibe of mushroom coffee, the wellness world’s latest obsession. It sounds weird, but stick with us.
We’re cutting through the hype to give you the fast, science-backed scoop on what this earthy brew is, what it does, and whether it deserves a spot in your favorite mug. No fluff, just facts and flavor, the Bones Coffee way.
What Is Mushroom Coffee?
Mushroom coffee combines ground coffee beans with powdered extracts from functional mushrooms, and its popularity is booming. The global market size was estimated at USD 2.71 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow. In 2023, mushroom coffee held a dominant 76.45% revenue share, valued for its lower caffeine content and potential health benefits.
This trend is powered by the broader functional mushroom market, projected to reach USD 8.31 billion by 2032. These aren't the culinary mushrooms you'd find in your salad. They're prized in traditional medicine for their health benefits. Imagine if your daily cup went on a woodland quest, this is the treasure it would bring back.
The most common medicinal mushrooms you'll find in these coffees include:
- Lion’s Mane
- Chaga
- Cordyceps
- Reishi
- Turkey Tail
How Is Mushroom Coffee Made?
Creating mushroom coffee is more science than kitchen magic. First, the functional medicinal mushrooms undergo a dual extraction process, using hot water and alcohol to pull out their beneficial compounds. This resulting liquid is then spray-dried into a fine powder, making the nutrients bioavailable so your body can absorb them.
This finished extract powder is then carefully infused with coffee grounds or instant coffee crystals. Since mushroom extract takes up space, the final product naturally contains less coffee per scoop, which explains the lower caffeine content. This method ensures you get a consistent, smooth cup every time without any mushroom chunks.
Key Insight: The key isn't just mixing ground mushroom extract and coffee. The dual extraction process is what makes the beneficial compounds bioavailable, meaning your body can actually absorb and use them effectively. |
Does Mushroom Coffee Have Less Caffeine Than Regular Coffee?
Yes, significantly. Most medicinal mushroom coffee products contain about half the caffeine of a regular coffee. By diluting the coffee grounds with mushroom extract, you get a gentler buzz without sacrificing the ritual.
The table below gives a detailed comparison between traditional coffee and medicinal mushroom coffee.
Beverage | Regular Coffee | Mushroom coffee |
|---|---|---|
Mushroom coffee | 95 mg (8 oz) | 48 mg (8 oz) |
Energy profile | Strong caffeine boost | Stead energy |
Health Benefits | General antioxidants | Immune support, antioxidants |
Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee
While mushroom coffee isn't a miracle cure, the early research is exciting. It’s important to remember these studies often use concentrated doses of mushroom extracts, but the findings point toward some intriguing potential.
Here’s a quick look at the proposed health benefits of mushroom coffee.
Lion’s Mane Extract
Often called the "smart mushroom," Lion's Mane is studied for its potential to support brain health. Research suggests it may promote focus, memory and overall cognitive health.
Emerging evidence also suggests Lion’s Mane could play a role in mood regulation and reducing symptoms of mild anxiety or depression.
Turkey Tail and Chaga Mushroom
These medicinal mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides that may help support immune health. Studies are investigating how these medicinal mushrooms may help strengthen our body's natural defenses.
Turkey Tail contains prebiotic fibers that may enhance gut health by nourishing beneficial bacteria. On the other hand, Chaga mushroom is one of the highest natural sources of antioxidants, which may contribute to reduced inflammation.
Cordyceps & Reishi
Known as adaptogens, Cordyceps and Reishi may help the body manage stress and maintain energy levels. Reishi, in particular, has a long history in supporting vitality, relaxation and overall well-being. It has also been studied for its potential to support heart health and regulate immune responses.
Cordyceps has been linked to improved oxygen utilization, making it popular among athletes for endurance.
Key Insight: Most medicinal mushrooms, such as Lion's mane, are "adaptogens." This means they may help your body adapt to and manage physical, chemical, and biological stress, promoting balance without the jitters associated with high caffeine intake. |
Common Myths of Drinking Mushroom Coffee
Let's clear the air on a few common misconceptions and questionable health claims floating around.
It’s Caffeine-Free
Mushroom coffee is lower in caffeine than regular coffee, but it definitely isn’t caffeine-free. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, always check the label.
It Can Replace My Medication
Absolutely not. Mushroom coffee is a functional beverage, not a pharmaceutical. It should never be used as a substitute for prescribed treatment. Always chat with your doctor first before making health-related changes.
All Mushroom Coffees Have the Same Benefits
Not even close. The type of mushroom extracts, the quality of the coffee beans, and the roasting process all impact the final product.
Potential Side Effects & Who Should Skip It
While generally safe for most people, mushroom coffee isn’t for everyone. Before you dive in, consider these potential factors:
- Mushroom Allergies: If you have a known allergy to mushrooms, it's best to avoid mushroom coffee.
- Digestive Upset: Some people may experience mild digestive issues when first trying it, though this is rare.
- Medication Interactions: Certain medicinal mushrooms may interact with medications like blood thinners, blood pressure, or diabetes drugs. Always consult your doctor if you’re on prescription medications.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, consider a trusted decaffeinated coffee and consult your physician before trying new dietary supplements.
Warning/Important: Always consult your doctor before trying mushroom coffee, especially if you are pregnant, have allergies, or take medications for blood pressure, blood thinning, or diabetes. It's a dietary supplement, not a replacement for medical advice. |
How Does Mushroom Coffee Taste?
So, is mushroom coffee your next morning go-to? If you have an adventurous palate and love exploring new flavor frontiers, it's definitely worth a shot.
Mushroom coffee taste is unique, roasty first, with a subtle, earthy whisper on the finish. It’s a great option for those looking to lower their caffeine intake without giving up their warm-cup ritual.
It comes in convenient formats like instant packets and single-serve coffee pods, making it easy to try. At Bones Coffee, we're all about pushing flavor boundaries. If you're looking for something new, you can always build your own sample pack from our 30+ unique flavors and see what inspires you.
How to Make Mushroom Coffee at Home
Making mushroom coffee is just as simple as preparing your regular coffee. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Pick Your Product
Choose a high-quality, pre-infused mushroom coffee or grab some or grab some pure mushroom extract powder to add to your favorite beans.
Step 2: Brew Your Way
If using ground coffee beans, brew them with a drip machine, French press, or learn how to make pour over coffee. For instant powder, simply stir it into hot water.
Step 3: Boost the Flavor
The earthy notes pair beautifully with creamy additions. Try a splash of oat milk, a dash of cinnamon, or a spoonful of drinking chocolate to create a cozy latte.
Step 4: Start Slow
It’s always a good idea to start with a half-serving to see how your body responds before making it a daily habit.
DIY Hack vs. Ready-Made: Mixing your own powder gives you control over the dosage, but ready-made options offer convenience and a balanced flavor profile designed by experts. |
Discover Bold Flavors That Make Every Cup an Experience
Mushroom coffee is an adventurous, potentially beneficial twist on a classic ritual. While it’s no miracle cure, it offers a lower-caffeine option for flavor explorers and wellness-curious drinkers. If you love discovering what’s new and bold in the world of coffee, it's absolutely worth a whirl.
At Bones, we believe every cup should be more than just coffee. It should be an experience. That’s why we’re all about small-batch roasting, flavor-first creations, and always brewing something unforgettable.
Ready to ride the next flavor wave? Visit our website and discover our wild lineup of 30+ small-batch roasted flavors, or hop on our subscription list for first-sip exclusives. Find your perfect brew today. Your mornings will never be the same.
