Mushroom coffee boasts a range of benefits. Some are noticed almost instantly, such as the energy hit from the caffeine in the coffee. Others take time to develop, such as the cognitive and immune-boosting effects of mushrooms like lion's mane or chaga. 

Understanding the potential benefits of mushroom coffee and how long it takes before they become noticeable is vital if you're to consume this brew to improve your health. 

In this article, we'll be assessing the potential benefits of mushroom coffee, how long it takes to notice positive effects on your health, and the potential risks and side effects of prolonged consumption.

What’s Inside a Cup of Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee combines traditional coffee with a blend of powdered medicinal mushrooms. A cup of mushroom coffee can contain several different species of functional fungi and a blend of Coffea arabica (Arabica coffee) and Coffea robusta (Robusta coffee). 

The coffee base should consist of high-quality coffee beans that are medium to dark roast. This component delivers the energizing effects of caffeine that most people seek from a morning brew. It also helps cover up some of the unpleasant flavors of the mushroom blend while enhancing the rich, earthy notes they produce. 

The mushroom blend can contain a variety of species. However, most pre-made blends contain a combination of lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis), chaga (Inonotus obliquus), and occasionally turkey tail (Trametes versicolor). 

These mushrooms are noted for their cognitive-enhancing properties that may improve focus, memory, and overall brain health. They are also prized for their immune-boosting capabilities, antioxidant levels, anti-inflammatory properties, and ability to improve gut health. 

Some mushroom coffee blends will also include adaptogens such as ashwagandha and Rhodiola, which help the body manage stress and maintain balance. 

Top 10 Health Benefits of Mushroom Coffee

The coffee and functional mushrooms in mushroom coffee boast a range of potential benefits. The ingredients work synergistically to promote several healthy bodily functions.

Let's take a look at 10 key health benefits of mushroom coffee:

1. Increased Energy, Focus, & Concentration

Mushroom coffee can improve energy, focus, and concentration. This is partly down to the stimulating effects of caffeine found in the coffee which provides an instant energy boost. However, certain mushrooms in the blend can provide prolonged, sustainable energy while boosting concentration levels.

Mushrooms such as Cordyceps can provide prolonged, sustainable energy while boosting concentration levels. Studies have proved that cordyceps mushrooms can enhance physical performance during exercise, reduce fatigue, and speed up recovery times after physical exertion [1].

Lion’s mane, another common mushroom used in mushroom coffee, is known for its cognitive benefits. This mushroom can help improve focus and mental clarity by stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF) production [2]. 

Consuming mushroom coffee that contains fungi such as cordyceps and lion's mane can increase energy, focus, and concentration in the long term. It's a good option for people who regularly drink coffee to improve productivity but want to cut down on caffeine and see longer-lasting energy. 

2. Improved Cognitive Function

Mushroom coffee may improve cognitive function thanks to mushrooms such as lion's mane, cordyceps, and reishi. Cognitive function is a broad term that refers to the mental processes involved in the acquisition of knowledge, the absorption of information, and the ability to remain attentive.

Several functional mushrooms often used in mushroom coffees have been shown to boost cognitive function:

• Lion’s Mane — This mushroom has been found to stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF), which contains compounds that support the growth and maintenance of neurons, leading to improved memory and cognitive function [3,4]. The function of these compounds may not only improve cognitive function but also restore damaged brain cells in people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. 

• Cordyceps — This peculiar species of fungi has also been linked to enhanced brain function and neuroprotection. It's believed that consuming cordyceps mushrooms can improve learning and memory thanks to polypeptide complexes [5]. 

• Reishi — This forest mushroom has also displayed promise in reducing mental fatigue and improving mood and mental performance in people with chronic pain disorders [6]. 

Consuming mushroom coffee that contains a blend of lion’s mane, cordyceps, and reishi regularly could improve cognitive function, expand memory, and improve the brain’s ability to process information. These benefits tend to require regular, consistent use. 

Noticeable changes generally start to appear after 2 or 3 weeks of daily consumption and remain in place for up to 6 months or more.

3. Reduced Anxiety & Stress

The adaptogenic properties of mushrooms, particularly reishi, may help reduce anxiety and stress.

A recent study observed the anti-anxiety potential of four species in the Ganoderma genus (reishi mushrooms) and discovered that these mushrooms were better at reducing long-term anxiety in mice models than the benzodiazepine drug diazepam [7].

Another common functional mushroom, the cordyceps fungus, has also displayed clear anti-anxiety and stress reduction qualities. These mushrooms help induce relaxation, reduce stress, ease anxiety, and combat fatigue by balancing cortisol levels and supporting adrenal health [8].

Drinking mushroom coffee that contains reishi and cordyceps mushrooms regularly could help reduce overall stress levels and ease the symptoms of anxiety.

4. Boosted Immune Function

Mushrooms such as chaga, reishi, and turkey tail are rich in beta-glucans and other compounds that are capable of enhancing immune function. These mushrooms support the body's natural defenses, help prevent illness, and help the body heal faster and more effectively. 

Studies have shown that turkey tail mushrooms can improve immune response and increase the effectiveness of certain immune cells [9]. 

Chaga’s high antioxidant content may also improve immune function. One study looking into the effectiveness of a chaga aqueous extract was tested on bone marrow cells from chemically immunosuppressed mice over 24 days. The extract restored immune function in the immunosuppressed mice “almost to the levels seen in non-treated control” [10].

5. Improved Digestion & Gut Health

Certain mushrooms used in mushroom coffee contain prebiotics that help beneficial gut bacteria flourish. This can improve digestion and overall gut health, contributing to better nutrient absorption, digestive comfort, and more regular bowel movements.

Studies have shown that mushrooms such as turkey tail and reishi are capable of enhancing the health and diversity of gut microbiota, which leads to better digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune response [11,12,13]. They may also promote digestive health by reducing inflammation in the gut. 

Related: Why Does Coffee Make You Poop?

6. Antioxidant Protection

Most mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, but species such as chaga, reishi, and lion’s mane contain especially high levels. These antioxidant-rich mushrooms help eliminate free radicals from the body. This detoxification process can protect and repair cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

Chaga mushrooms are especially prized for their detoxifying properties. They have anti-bacterial, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which help rid the body of harmful free radicals and protect against infections and illness [14]. 

Consuming mushroom coffee of any variety is likely to eliminate free radicals to some degree, but mushroom coffee that contains a large amount of chaga is even more effective.

7. Reduces Inflammation 

Many functional mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties. Reishi and chaga are especially valuable when it comes to reducing inflammation. Reishi has displayed promise in treating a plethora of autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, and even Crohn’s disease [15]. 

Reishi has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties that are capable of reducing general inflammation and flare-ups from chronic inflammatory diseases and allergic reactions. Chaga also displays potent anti-inflammatory properties and may be just as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs such as dexamethasone but far safer for long-term use [16].

8. Improves Sleep Quality

Reishi and other calming mushrooms, such as cordyceps, can improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation, inducing mild sedation, and reducing stress levels. 

The adaptogenic properties of cordyceps mushrooms can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, contributing to better sleep patterns. Studies have also indicated that reishi can improve sleep duration and quality when consumed on a regular basis [17]. 

Note: Mushroom coffee that contains real coffee (not caffeine-free versions) is best to avoid within 6 hours of your intended bedtime. The caffeine content could hinder the ability to fall asleep. 

9. Aid in Weight Loss & Management

Mushroom coffee may help support a targeted weight loss plan in a few key ways: 

• Caffeine in coffee — A series of trials discovered that caffeine in coffee significantly increased metabolic rate in obese and normal-weight individuals and increased fat oxidation in the first four hours after consumption [18]. 

• Cordyceps mushrooms — In a study on rat models, cordycepin (a bioactive compound found in cordyceps mushrooms) was found to reduce body weight gain and fat accumulation around the epididymis and kidneys in rats fed on a high-fat diet [19].

• Reishi mushrooms — A study on rodent models found that reishi was able to influence fat metabolism and significantly lower total cholesterol and total triglycerides in hyperlipidemic rats [20]. 

Of course, these benefits cannot be used to replace a healthy exercise and nutritional regimen. Mushroom coffee works best when combined with a targeted approach to weight loss — they are not a miracle cure.

10. Cancer Defense

While more research is required before these mushrooms are deemed a “cancer treatment,” preliminary studies have shown that turkey tail, chaga, reishi, and lion’s mane can enhance the efficacy of certain cancer treatments, reduce cancer-inducing free radicals, and inhibit tumor growth [21]. 

Although we can’t say for certain whether mushroom coffee is an effective cancer preventative, consuming the drink regularly may improve immune function, reduce free radicals in the body, and slow or halt tumor growth. 

It’s important to note that this beverage is not an acceptable replacement for modern cancer treatment. Follow the advice of your doctor.

Side Effects & Risks of Mushroom Coffee 

Mushroom coffee can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation and sourced from reputable manufacturers. However, there are a few potential risks and side effects of mushroom coffee to be aware of.

Here are some of the potential side effects of mushroom coffee consumption:

1. Allergic Reactions 

Some individuals may be allergic to mushrooms as a whole or certain species used in mushroom coffee. Symptoms of mushroom allergies can include itching, swelling, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, nausea, and vomiting. If you have a known mushroom allergy or experience any side effects from eating certain fungi, it’s best to avoid mushroom coffee. 

2. Caffeine Sensitivity 

Although mushroom coffee contains far less caffeine than a regular cup of coffee, it can cause side effects in people who are overly sensitive to the stimulant. Side effects of caffeine consumption can include jitteriness, insomnia, increased heart rate, and anxiety.

If you’re particularly sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to avoid mushroom coffee or opt for a decaffeinated blend. 

3. Indigestion 

Although mushroom coffee can improve gut health and aid digestion in many people, it can cause digestive discomfort in some. Side effects can include stomach discomfort, gas, diarrhea, and nausea. 

Consuming large quantities of mushroom coffee puts you at increased risk of developing digestive issues. If you have a sensitive stomach you should start with half a serving of mushroom coffee to see how your body reacts before increasing the serving size gradually. 

4. Medication Interactions

Some medicinal mushrooms can interact with medications. For example, reishi mushrooms may affect blood pressure and blood sugar levels, which could interfere with medications for conditions that affect these factors. Another example is the lion's mane, which may influence nerve growth and could interact with medications for neurological conditions or blood clotting disorders.

If you are on prescription medication, especially those that affect blood pressure and blood sugar, consult a healthcare professional before adding mushroom coffee to your diet. 

5. Blood-Thinning Effects 

Some mushrooms, such as reishi and shiitake, have blood-thinning properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. This can be risky for people who take anticoagulant medications or have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or aplastic anemia. 

6. Hormonal Effects 

Some mushrooms may influence hormone levels. For example, cordyceps mushrooms are known to affect cortisol levels and could potentially impact adrenal function over time. Reishi mushrooms, which may modulate sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, could potentially affect reproductive health and hormone-related disorders. Chaga can also influence the production of melatonin and serotonin. These hormones regulate sleep and mood. 

Although there’s limited evidence to suggest these mushrooms negatively affect hormone levels, it’s something to monitor and keep an eye on if you decide to consume mushroom coffee regularly. 

Make sure to consult with a healthcare professional if you have existing hormonal imbalances or are taking hormone-related medications before consuming mushroom coffee.

7. Contamination

Mushrooms are bioaccumulators, which means they essentially take on compounds from the air and soil and store them in their flesh. Mushrooms that have been grown in areas with high air or soil pollution can contain heavy metals, pesticides, or other harmful substances.

Consuming contaminants can negatively impact health. Therefore, you must purchase mushroom coffee from trusted brands that source high-quality ingredients responsibly. 

FAQs: Mushrooms & Coffee

If you want to learn more about functional mushrooms, coffee, and mushroom-infused beverages, head over to the blog.

If you’ve got a question you’d like an answer to, read through the answers to the FAQs we’ve received below. If you’re still searching for an answer, feel free to contact us here. 

1. How Can You Make Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee is easy to make if you buy a pre-blended mushroom blend, such as our Shroom Boost blends, as well as ground coffee. 

Mushroom coffee can also be made from scratch by grinding several different dried functional mushrooms and combining them in equal parts. This blend can then be mixed in equal parts with coffee grounds and brewed in the same way. 

Making mushroom coffee from scratch can take quite a bit of trial and error. Balancing The flavors and finding effective doses of each type of mushroom is challenging. 

2. Can You Drink Mushroom Coffee While Fasting?

Yes. You can consume mushroom coffee during a fasting period. 

Mushroom coffee won’t break a fast, provided the blend is brewed black and doesn't contain any additional sugars, sweeteners, or creamers. 

You have to be mindful of how much mushroom coffee you drink while fasting and at what point it's consumed during the fast. It's best to limit yourself to one or two cups daily and only begin consuming the beverage once the body has entered ketosis (12 to 24 hours into the fast). 

When used correctly, mushroom coffee can be a fantastic tool for fasting. It can boost energy, focus, and concentration and curb hunger pangs while your body is in a fasted state. 

Related: Does Coffee Break a Fast?

3. How Long Does it Take to Feel the Effects of Mushroom Coffee?

The effects of mushroom coffee tend to kick in within 5–10 minutes after consumption. Users will begin to feel alert and energized from the instantaneous effects of the caffeine in the coffee first, followed by the slow onset of the mushrooms about 20–30 minutes later.

The major benefits attributed to the functional mushrooms require more time — typically around 1–3 weeks of consistent use. These effects are more subtle but tend to remain long after the coffee has worn off. These benefits include improved focus and memory, stronger immune function, and more consistent energy levels. 

References:

1. Chen, S., Li, Z., Krochmal, R., Abrazado, M., Kim, W., & Cooper, C. B. (2010). Effect of Cs-4®(Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 16(5), 585-590.
2. Mori, K., Obara, Y., Hirota, M., Azumi, Y., Kinugasa, S., Inatomi, S., & Nakahata, N. (2008). Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 31(9), 1727-1732.
3. Docherty, S., Doughty, F. L., & Smith, E. F. (2023). The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study. Nutrients, 15(22), 4842.
4. Kushairi, N., Phan, C. W., Sabaratnam, V., David, P., & Naidu, M. (2019). Lion’s mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. suppresses H2O2-induced oxidative damage and LPS-induced inflammation in HT22 hippocampal neurons and BV2 microglia. Antioxidants, 8(8), 261.
5. Yuan, G., An, L., Sun, Y., Xu, G., & Du, P. (2018). Improvement of learning and memory induced by Cordyceps polypeptide treatment and the underlying mechanism. Evidence‐Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018(1), 9419264.
6. Pazzi, F., Adsuar, J. C., Domínguez-Muñoz, F. J., García-Gordillo, M. A., Gusi, N., & Collado-Mateo, D. (2020, November). Ganoderma lucidum effects on mood and health-related quality of life in women with fibromyalgia. In Healthcare (Vol. 8, No. 4, p. 520). MDPI.
7. Singh, R., Dhingra, G. S., & Shri, R. (2016). Evaluation of the anti-anxiety potential of four Ganoderma (Agaricomycetes) species from India in mice. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 18(11).
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9. Stamets, P. (2012). Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail Mushrooms) and the treatment of breast cancer. Global advances in health and medicine, 1(5), 20-20.
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11. Cui, J., & Chisti, Y. (2003). Polysaccharopeptides of Coriolus versicolor: physiological activity, uses, and production. Biotechnology advances, 21(2), 109-122.
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13. Zhao, J., Hu, Y., Qian, C., Hussain, M., Liu, S., Zhang, A., ... & Sun, P. (2023). The interaction between mushroom polysaccharides and gut microbiota and their effect on human health: A review. Biology, 12(1), 122.
14. Park, Y. K., Lee, H. B., Jeon, E. J., Jung, H. S., & Kang, M. H. (2004). Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in human lymphocytes as assessed by comet assay. Biofactors, 21(1-4), 109-112.
15. Bhardwaj, N., Katyal, P., & K Sharma, A. (2014). Suppression of inflammatory and allergic responses by pharmacologically potent fungus Ganoderma lucidum. Recent patents on inflammation & allergy drug discovery, 8(2), 104-117.
16. ZHONG, X., Chanming, W. E. I., Jiageng, C. H. E. N., Shuyuan, Z. H. O. U., Qiuyang, C. A. O., HUANG, X., ... & Wenjie, M. E. I. (2021). Study on the anti-inflammatory activity of chaga mushroom aqueous extract-alcohol precipitate. Journal of Holistic Integrative Pharmacy, 2(2), 135-144.
17. Qiu, Y., Mao, Z. J., Ruan, Y. P., & Zhang, X. (2021). Exploration of the anti-insomnia mechanism of Ganoderma by central-peripheral multi-level interaction network analysis. BMC microbiology, 21, 1-16.
18. Acheson, K. J., Zahorska-Markiewicz, B., Pittet, P., Anantharaman, K., & Jéquier, E. (1980). Caffeine and coffee: their influence on metabolic rate and substrate utilization in normal weight and obese individuals. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 33(5), 989-997.
19. An, Y., Li, Y., Wang, X., Chen, Z., Xu, H., Wu, L., ... & Yu, L. (2018). Cordycepin reduces weight through regulating gut microbiota in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Lipids in health and disease, 17, 1-10.
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