As a new benefits of mushroom coffee craze has taken off, mushroom-infused brews have earned acclaim as a low-caffeine alternative to traditional joe that boosts mental clarity and supports immune health. Mushroom coffee typically looks like your regular cup of joe but contains dehydrated ground mushrooms. The mushrooms are usually reishi, lion’s mane, chaga and cordyceps, which boast medicinal benefits. According to the brands’ marketing, these fungi help prevent cognitive decline, support immune function and increase energy levels.

These blends are generally safe for healthy adults who aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding and don’t take any medication, but if you have a medical condition or take prescription drugs, it’s best to check with your healthcare provider before adding any mushrooms to your diet. They can interact with certain medications, especially blood thinners and some pain relievers.

Most people drink them in the morning for a jitter-free caffeine boost and because they can improve focus and productivity without the jitters or energy crashes that often come with high-caffeine drinks. Those who suffer from sensitivities to caffeine also find that these mushroom blends can be helpful, as they don’t trigger the same unpleasant side effects.

The Best Mushroom Coffee Blends for an Energizing Start

There are many brands of mushroom coffee available, some containing just the reishi and lion’s mane blend or others with additional ingredients that promote a range of potential wellness benefits. For instance, Four Sigmatic’s coffee has a formulated adaptogenic blend with chaga, reishi and turkey tail, which is designed to enhance energy and help the body deal with stress.