What is Mushroom Coffee?
Mushroom coffee is a trendy beverage that combines traditional coffee beans with extracts from medicinal mushrooms. Unlike the culinary mushrooms you put in a stir-fry, the fungi used here—like Lion's Mane, Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps—are known for their potential health-supporting properties. The mushrooms are typically dried, ground, and then processed into a concentrated powder that is blended with ground coffee beans or instant coffee. The result is a cup that tastes remarkably similar to regular coffee, with a slightly earthier or nutty undertone, rather than a strong, fungal flavour.
The “Feeling” vs. Regular Coffee
The most significant difference users report is the nature of the energy boost. Regular coffee, with its higher caffeine content, can provide a rapid, sometimes jarring spike in energy that can lead to jitters and a hard crash later. Mushroom coffee, with its lower caffeine and adaptogenic mushrooms, is designed to offer a gentler, more sustained energy lift.
Smoother, Sustained Energy
- Cordyceps mushrooms are particularly noted for their ability to enhance the body's use of oxygen and increase cellular energy (ATP) production, helping to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
- The combination of lower caffeine and adaptogens helps prevent the roller-coaster effect of a caffeine spike followed by an energy slump. For many, this translates to a more stable and productive day.
Calm Focus, Not Jitters
- One of the most praised effects is the reduction of caffeine-induced anxiety and jitters. Mushrooms classified as adaptogens, such as Reishi and Cordyceps, help the body manage stress by regulating hormones like cortisol.
- For those who find traditional coffee makes them feel tense or anxious, mushroom coffee often provides a sense of calm alertness instead. The potential inclusion of L-theanine in some blends, an amino acid found in green tea, can also promote a more focused and relaxed state.
Enhanced Mental Clarity
- Lion's Mane mushroom is a key player for cognitive benefits. It contains compounds that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein essential for brain health.
- Users often report reduced brain fog and improved concentration, making it easier to stay on task for longer periods. A 2023 study found that Lion's Mane supplementation improved cognitive task performance and lowered stress over time in young adults.
The Specific Effects of Key Mushroom Varieties
The overall feeling from mushroom coffee is a product of the specific mushroom extracts used. Here is a breakdown of how individual mushrooms contribute to the experience:
- Reishi: Known as the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is a powerful adaptogen that promotes relaxation and helps the body cope with stress. It can provide a calming effect that balances the stimulating properties of caffeine, which is particularly beneficial for those prone to anxiety.
- Lion's Mane: This is the primary nootropic mushroom, revered for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It’s used to boost mental clarity, sharpen focus, and combat brain fog, making it ideal for creative and mentally demanding tasks.
- Cordyceps: Popular among athletes, Cordyceps is known for its ability to boost energy and endurance. It enhances oxygen utilization and supports ATP production, providing sustained energy without overstimulation.
- Chaga: Prized for its antioxidant content, Chaga can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This can contribute to a general feeling of well-being and immune support.
Side Effects and Considerations
While generally well-tolerated, some people may experience mild side effects, especially when first trying mushroom coffee. Possible issues include allergic reactions, digestive upset, dizziness, or dry mouth, with Reishi having been associated with more specific reactions. As with any dietary supplement, it is wise to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts. Individuals with mushroom allergies, autoimmune conditions, kidney problems, or those on certain medications (like blood thinners) should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Comparison Table: Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee
| Feature | Mushroom Coffee | Regular Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Type | Smooth, sustained energy with no crash | Rapid spike and crash |
| Caffeine Content | Generally lower (40-60mg per serving) | Higher (approx. 95mg per serving) |
| Mental State | Calm, clear focus, less anxiety | Alertness, potential for jitters or anxiety |
| Key Ingredients | Coffee + medicinal mushroom extracts (e.g., Lion's Mane, Reishi) | Coffee beans |
| Flavor | Earthy, nutty undertones, but largely like regular coffee | Classic, bold coffee flavor |
| Health Benefits | Adaptogenic, cognitive, immune support | Antioxidants, temporary focus |
Making the Switch: The Experience
For many, making the switch to mushroom coffee becomes a conscious choice for a more balanced morning routine. It's less about the powerful 'kick' and more about feeling consistently productive and mentally clear. The experience is often described as feeling grounded and calm, yet fully awake and energized. While the initial taste might be a slight adjustment, most high-quality brands effectively mask the mushroom flavour, and many find the subtle earthy notes add a pleasant complexity. Consistency is key to reaping the full benefits, with many users reporting a noticeable difference in their mood, focus, and energy levels after a few weeks of regular use. It is an investment in a different kind of ritual, one focused on sustained well-being rather than short-term stimulation.
Conclusion
The answer to what does mushroom coffee make you feel like is complex, depending largely on the specific blend and your individual physiology. However, the overarching theme from user reports is a feeling of balanced, sustained energy combined with enhanced focus and a calming effect. By mitigating the harsh, jittery side of caffeine through the inclusion of adaptogenic and nootropic mushrooms, this functional beverage offers a distinct and often preferred alternative for those seeking a more harmonious start to their day. While more large-scale human research is still needed to fully validate all of its touted benefits, the anecdotal evidence and promising preliminary studies paint a clear picture of a coffee experience that leaves you feeling clear-headed and energized, not wired and anxious. For more information on the specific benefits of different medicinal mushrooms, explore resources like the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's guide on Chaga.
