If you like your coffee with a little extra kick, you may want to consider trying mushroom coffee. It’s a blend of ground coffee beans with functional mushrooms, or fungi that have therapeutic properties, such as lion’s mane to improve brain function, or cordyceps for endurance and energy. Some companies add adaptogenic mushrooms to help with specific health concerns, like chaga for anxiety or reishi for heart health.
What Is Mushroom Coffee Mix and How Do You Use It
To make the drink, the mushroom coffee mix is typically dried and then extracted to isolate the beneficial compounds. Then, the extract is mixed with the ground beans. The result is a mix that can be whisked into hot water for a cup of coffee or brewed into a latte with plant-based milk. Many companies make the mixes in a powder form, so they can be added to your favorite brewing method, such as an automatic pot, a pour-over or a French press. Most are also vegan and gluten-free, although if you have a serious allergy, be sure to check the label.
While there are plenty of DIY mushroom coffee recipes, it’s often easier to buy a ready-made product from a company such as RYZE, Four Sigmatic, or Laird Superfood. Some of the brands make a blend that is specifically designed for a drip coffee machine, while others have options for cold brew or espresso. Some are made with just coffee, and others use different types of mushroom extracts, such as Lion’s Mane for focus or Chaga for stress relief.