How to Take Mushroom Coffee for Maximum Benefits

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

While preliminary human studies are limited, animal studies and traditional uses suggest that medicinal mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Reishi may offer potential cognitive and immune support. This has fueled a growing trend around mushroom coffee, prompting many to wonder how to best incorporate this functional beverage into their routine for optimal results.

Quick Summary

A guide on preparing and consuming mushroom coffee, covering different formats like instant powder and ground blends, best practices for brewing, and ways to enhance flavor and health benefits with specific additions.

Key Points

Start Simple: Begin with instant mushroom coffee powder mixed with hot water for the easiest preparation method.
Enhance Flavor: Add natural sweeteners, milk, or spices like cinnamon to customize the taste to your liking.
Brew as a Blend: Treat ground mushroom coffee blends like regular grounds and use a French press for a richer flavor.
Customize with Tinctures: Add liquid mushroom extracts to your favorite coffee or beverage for precise dosing and targeted benefits.
Consider the Time of Day: Drink energizing mushroom blends in the morning and relaxing, caffeine-free blends with Reishi in the evening.
Know Your Mushrooms: Understand which functional mushrooms (e.g., Lion's Mane, Reishi) are in your blend to align with your health goals.
Consult a Doctor: If you have health conditions or take medication, speak with a healthcare provider before starting mushroom coffee.

Mushroom coffee has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional coffee, appealing to those who want a less-jittery energy boost and potential health benefits associated with adaptogenic mushrooms. Understanding how to take mushroom coffee properly, from preparation to timing, is key to getting the most out of this unique beverage. Unlike a typical cup of joe, mushroom coffee comes in several forms and offers more flexibility in how it can be enjoyed.

Choosing Your Mushroom Coffee Type

Before you brew, you need to select your mushroom coffee format. The most common varieties include instant powders, ground blends, and capsules, each with its own advantages.

Instant Powder: This is the most convenient option, as it requires only hot water. Simply stir a scoop or a packet of the powder into your mug, and it dissolves quickly. Instant powders are perfect for busy mornings or for taking on the go. Many popular brands, such as Ryze and Suiyilary, offer instant mushroom coffee blends.
Ground Blend: For coffee purists, a ground blend offers the classic brewing experience with added mushroom extracts. This pre-mixed option works just like regular coffee grounds and can be prepared using a drip coffee maker, French press, or pour-over. Brands like Four Sigmatic and others offer these blends.
Mushroom Tinctures or Extracts: For those who prefer to keep their brewing method separate, liquid tinctures or powder extracts can be added to any coffee or beverage. This allows for more precise dosing and customization, letting you choose your mushroom type based on your desired benefit, such as Lion's Mane for focus or Reishi for relaxation.

Classic and Creative Preparation Methods

The way you prepare your mushroom coffee can significantly impact its flavor and effectiveness. While simply adding hot water works for instant powders, other methods can create a more indulgent experience.

The Basic Instant Brew

This is the fastest and easiest way to prepare mushroom coffee. Just heat water to about 180°F (not boiling) and pour it over a scoop of instant mushroom coffee powder in your mug. Stir thoroughly until dissolved. You can enjoy it black or add your favorite milk or creamer.

French Press Method for Ground Blends

Using a French press is an excellent way to prepare ground mushroom coffee, allowing for a richer, more full-bodied flavor.

Add your desired amount of ground mushroom coffee to the French press.
Pour hot water (around 195-205°F) over the grounds.
Let it steep for 3-4 minutes.
Slowly press the plunger down and pour.

DIY Mushroom Coffee with Extracts

If you're using a tincture or extract, you can add it to your regular coffee after brewing. This method allows you to use your preferred coffee roast and brewing equipment. Simply add a few drops of the liquid extract to your freshly brewed coffee and stir. This is also a great way to add different types of mushroom extracts to your coffee, depending on your needs for the day.

Enhancing the Flavor and Benefits

To make your mushroom coffee even more enjoyable and potent, consider these additions:

MCT Oil or Ghee: For a creamy, brain-boosting drink often called 'adaptogenic bulletproof coffee', blend your mushroom coffee with a tablespoon of MCT oil and a teaspoon of grass-fed ghee or coconut oil. This can provide sustained energy and mental clarity.
Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract can complement the earthy, nutty notes of the mushrooms.
Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter taste, use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia to balance the flavor.
Milk Alternatives: Oat milk or almond milk can add a creamy texture and richness, making it a delicious latte.
Adaptogenic Boosts: You can further customize your blend with other adaptogenic powders, such as ashwagandha for a calming effect, or maca for an extra energy kick.

When to Drink Mushroom Coffee

The best time to drink mushroom coffee depends on your goals and the type of mushrooms in your blend. Many blends are lower in caffeine than regular coffee, providing a smoother energy lift.

Morning Boost: For most people, a morning cup of mushroom coffee provides steady energy and focus without the jitters, making it ideal for starting the day.
Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: If you experience an afternoon slump, a second cup can help you maintain focus without disrupting your sleep later on, due to its lower caffeine content.
Evening Relaxation: If your blend contains calming mushrooms like Reishi and is caffeine-free, a cup in the evening can help you wind down before bed. Check the label to ensure it is caffeine-free for nighttime consumption.

Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: A Comparison

To help you decide which is right for you, here is a comparison of mushroom coffee and regular coffee.


Feature	Mushroom Coffee	Regular Coffee
Caffeine Content	Typically lower (40-60mg per cup)	Higher (around 95mg per cup)
Energy Type	Steady, sustained energy without the crash	Quick, powerful energy spike followed by potential crash
Flavor Profile	Earthy, nutty notes, often milder	Ranges from robust and bitter to acidic, depending on the roast
Potential Benefits	Cognitive support, immune boosting, adaptogenic	Antioxidants, temporary focus boost
Digestion	Often easier on the stomach, less acidic	Can cause stomach acidity and discomfort for some

Conclusion

Incorporating mushroom coffee into your routine is a simple and versatile process. By choosing the right product format, from convenient instant powders to customizeable tinctures, and experimenting with preparation methods and flavor enhancements, you can tailor the experience to your preferences. Whether you seek a calmer morning boost, a focused afternoon, or a relaxing evening ritual, understanding how to take mushroom coffee effectively allows you to unlock its unique potential. Always consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take medications. For further research into the science behind adaptogenic mushrooms, resources like the National Library of Medicine offer extensive information..

Frequently Asked Questions

To prepare instant mushroom coffee, simply stir one serving of the powder into a cup of hot water, ideally between 180-195°F, until it dissolves. You can add your preferred milk or sweetener.

Yes, you can use a French press for ground mushroom coffee. Add the grounds to the press, pour hot water over them, let it steep for 3-4 minutes, and then press and serve.

No, most mushroom coffee is processed to remove the flavor, resulting in a nutty or earthy taste rather than a strong mushroom flavor. The taste is generally milder than regular coffee.

Mushroom coffee typically contains less caffeine than regular coffee, offering a more stable and less jittery energy boost, which can be ideal for those sensitive to caffeine.

Common functional mushrooms used include Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail, each offering different potential health benefits.

Mushroom coffee is a blend of coffee and mushroom extracts, while a mushroom tincture is a liquid, concentrated extract of mushrooms. Tinctures can be added to any beverage, offering more customization.

While generally safe, some people may experience mild side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating, especially when first starting. Those with health conditions or on certain medications should consult a doctor.

Recommendations vary by brand and product strength, but generally, 1-2 cups per day is advised. Check the product's packaging for specific guidelines.

No, adding milk or a sweetener will not reduce the potential health benefits of the mushroom extracts, but it may affect your calorie and sugar intake. For maximum benefit without added sugars, use natural, low-calorie alternatives like stevia.