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Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: What You Need to Know

Education · From the Lab ·

Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: What You Need to Know

Mushroom coffee is everywhere right now — wellness influencers swear by it, specialty brands are popping up constantly, and you've probably seen claims about improved focus, better immunity, and less jitteriness than regular coffee. But what does the science actually show?

A photo of Turkey Tail mushroom

Mushroom coffee is everywhere right now — wellness influencers swear by it, specialty brands are popping up constantly, and you've probably seen claims about improved focus, better immunity, and less jitteriness than regular coffee. But what does the science actually show?

Here's our honest take as coffee roasters: mushroom coffee isn't magic, but it isn't nonsense either. The research is more nuanced than the marketing suggests. Let's look at what we actually know — and what's still just hype.

A man picking up his mushroom cup of coffee

What Is Mushroom Coffee?

Mushroom coffee is regular coffee blended with extracts from medicinal or "functional" mushrooms. These aren't culinary mushrooms like shiitake or portobello — they're fungi traditionally used in Asian medicine.

The most common mushrooms used:

  • Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) — marketed for cognitive function and nerve health
  • Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) — marketed for immune support and antioxidants
  • Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) — marketed for stress reduction and sleep
  • Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) — marketed for energy and athletic performance

The mushrooms are typically dried, extracted, and processed into powder that's blended with ground coffee beans. Most products contain roughly 50% coffee, 50% mushroom extract — which means about half the caffeine of regular coffee.

What the Research Actually Shows

Let's go mushroom by mushroom, because the evidence varies significantly.

Lion's Mane: The Most Promising for Cognition

Lion's mane has the strongest human research behind its cognitive claims — but with important caveats.

What studies show:

A Japanese clinical trial in 50-80 year-old adults with mild cognitive impairment found significant improvements in cognitive performance after 16 weeks of supplementation. However, benefits declined after discontinuation.

A 2023 trial at Northumbria University (41 healthy adults, 1.8g/day for 28 days) found participants performed faster on certain cognitive tasks 60 minutes after a single dose, but showed no significant global cognitive improvements after chronic supplementation.

A 2024-2025 systematic review of 5 randomized controlled trials found modest improvements in cognitive scores.

The takeaway: Moderate evidence for older adults with cognitive decline; weak evidence for healthy young adults. If you're 25 and sharp, lion's mane probably won't supercharge your brain.

Chaga: Limited Human Evidence

Chaga is marketed heavily for immune support, but the research is almost entirely preclinical.

According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, "the safety and efficacy of chaga have yet to be evaluated in clinical studies." The immune-modulating effects documented in laboratory research haven't been confirmed in human trials.

Important safety note: Multiple documented cases of kidney damage (oxalate nephropathy) have occurred in people consuming chaga powder at 4-15g daily. One case resulted in permanent kidney damage requiring hemodialysis.

Reishi: Modest Immune Support

Reishi has some human research, primarily in cancer patients as an adjunct therapy.

A Cochrane systematic review analyzed 5 randomized controlled trials (373 participants) on reishi for cancer treatment. Patients receiving reishi with chemotherapy/radiotherapy showed modest improvements in immune markers, though the review concluded it "could be administered as an alternative adjunct to conventional treatment" — not as a replacement.

For general stress and sleep claims, the evidence is limited.

Cordyceps: Exercise Performance Potential

Cordyceps has the most interesting research for physical performance.

A 2017 study (28 participants, 4g/day for 3 weeks) found significant improvements in VO2max (+4.8 ml/kg/min vs +0.9 for placebo) and time to exhaustion (+69.8 seconds). No effects were seen after just 1 week.

Another trial in amateur marathoners (2g/day for 12 weeks) showed improved aerobic performance and lowered heart rate at submaximal intensity. The takeaway: Moderate evidence for exercise performance, but only with consistent supplementation over 3+ weeks at 2-4g/day.

A woman hold two cups of coffee

Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: Nutritional Comparison

Regular coffee contains 95-200mg of caffeine per 8oz cup with high antioxidants from chlorogenic acid and about 2 calories when black, while mushroom coffee has 50-100mg of caffeine per 8oz with high antioxidants from both coffee and mushrooms, includes beta-glucans (absent in regular coffee), and has similar calorie content.

The lower caffeine is the most practical difference for most people. If you want to reduce caffeine intake while keeping the coffee ritual, mushroom coffee offers a middle ground.

One note from Harvard Health: You would likely get more nutritional benefit from eating actual mushrooms alongside regular coffee, as whole mushrooms provide fiber and other nutrients lost in extraction.

What's Actually Supported vs. Marketing Claims

Let's be direct about this:

Supported by Evidence (With Caveats)

Claims supported by evidence include lion's mane supporting cognitive function in older adults (though effects require sustained use and diminish when stopped), cordyceps improving exercise tolerance (but only with 3+ weeks of 2-4g daily), containing 50% less caffeine than regular coffee, and being gentler for caffeine-sensitive people due to the lower caffeine content.

Not Supported or Overstated

Common marketing claims that are not supported or overstated include "boosts focus and clarity" in healthy young adults (studies show minimal to no cognitive benefit), "immune-boosting" from chaga and reishi (human clinical trials are lacking), "reduces stress and anxiety" (only trend-level effects that aren't statistically significant), being "better than regular coffee" for health (whole mushrooms plus coffee would provide more benefits), and being "scientifically proven" (most evidence comes from isolated supplements, not actual mushroom coffee products).

Quality and Safety Concerns

This is worth knowing before you buy.

The FDA doesn't require pre-market approval for dietary supplements, placing responsibility on manufacturers. Quality control is a significant issue in this market.

Concerning finding: In one study of 19 reishi supplements tested, only 5 could be validated as genuine products. The mushroom supplement industry has documented quality control problems. Potential interactions:

  • Blood thinners: Reishi and chaga may increase bleeding risk
  • Blood pressure medications: Additive effects possible
  • Immunosuppressants: Cordyceps may interfere
  • Surgery: Discontinue 2 weeks before due to bleeding risk

If you're on medications, talk to your doctor before adding mushroom coffee to your routine.

Our Honest Assessment

Here's our take as coffee people:

Mushroom coffee makes sense if you:

  • Want to reduce caffeine while keeping coffee flavor
  • Are specifically interested in trying lion's mane or cordyceps for their documented (if modest) benefits
  • Enjoy the taste and ritual of mushroom coffee

Mushroom coffee probably isn't worth it if you:

  • Expect dramatic cognitive or immune benefits
  • Are paying a large premium expecting health transformation
  • Could just eat actual mushrooms and drink regular quality coffee

The Harvard Health summary puts it well: mushroom coffee "probably won't do any harm" but don't expect miracles.

What About Just Drinking Good Coffee?

Regular coffee has extensively documented health benefits — decades of research linking moderate consumption to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and neurological conditions.

The compounds in quality coffee — chlorogenic acids, melanoidins, and yes, caffeine — have substantial evidence behind them. If you're drinking well-sourced, properly roasted coffee, you're already getting significant health benefits.

Adding mushroom extracts might provide incremental benefits for specific purposes. But the foundation of a healthy coffee habit is the coffee itself — its quality, freshness, and how it's produced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mushroom coffee actually good for you?

It's not harmful, and some mushrooms (lion's mane, cordyceps) have modest evidence for specific benefits. But the health claims are often overstated. Regular quality coffee has more robust research supporting its health benefits.

Does mushroom coffee taste like mushrooms?

Most brands taste predominantly like coffee with earthy undertones. The mushroom flavor is usually subtle. If you're sensitive to mushroom taste, try products with lower mushroom ratios.

How much caffeine is in mushroom coffee?

Typically 50-100mg per 8oz cup — about half of regular coffee. This is because mushroom powder replaces roughly half the coffee in most blends.

Can I make mushroom coffee at home?

Yes — you can buy mushroom extract powder and add it to your regular coffee. This lets you control the ratio and use your preferred coffee. Harvard Health suggests this may be more cost-effective than pre-blended products.

Is mushroom coffee safe?

For most people, yes. But chaga has documented kidney concerns at high doses, and several mushrooms can interact with medications. If you're on blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or have upcoming surgery, consult your doctor first.

A woman holding two Ember Coffee cups

The Bottom Line

Mushroom coffee occupies an interesting middle ground — it's not the miracle wellness brands claim, but it's not snake oil either. Some of the mushrooms have real, if modest, evidence behind specific benefits. The lower caffeine content is a legitimate advantage for sensitive individuals.

But if you're looking for the health benefits of coffee, the simplest answer is: drink good coffee. Quality sourcing, proper roasting, and freshness matter more than adding trendy ingredients. The research behind regular coffee consumption is robust and extensive.

At Ember, we focus on what we know works — organic beans, air-roasted for a clean cup, shipped fresh. No gimmicks, no miracle claims. Just coffee done right.

Shop our air-roasted coffees →

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Farmers watched helplessly as their carefully tended plants withered under the scorching sun or succumbed to the icy grip of frost. The result? A staggering 40% reduction in yields in some areas. Unseasonal Deluges: Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the second-largest coffee producer globally, unseasonal rains have wreaked havoc. Coffee cherries, which should have been ripening under gentle sunshine, instead rotted on the branches, leading to significant crop losses and quality issues. Geopolitical Jitters: As if weather woes weren't enough, the coffee market found itself caught in a political crossfire. In early 2025, rumors swirled about potential U.S. tariffs on Colombian coffee. Though never implemented, the mere whisper of trade restrictions sent prices soaring by 15% in just a week, highlighting the fragility of global coffee trade relationships. Supply Chain Snarls: The journey of coffee beans from farm to cup has become increasingly complex and costly. Ongoing logistical challenges, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and labor shortages, have inflated transportation costs. The price of shipping a container of coffee has tripled since 2023, adding another layer of pressure to already strained margins. Market Speculation: As news of crop failures and potential shortages spread like wildfire, market speculators pounced. Their actions drove coffee futures to unprecedented heights, with the C-market price for Arabica coffee reaching a jaw-dropping $3.84 per pound in February 2025 – a 47-year high. The Ripple Effect Reaches Minnesota Here at Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Minnesota's vibrant coffee scene, we've felt the tremors of these global shifts. The impact on our operations and community has been profound: Margin Squeeze: Green coffee now accounts for a staggering 60-70% of our production costs, up from 40-50% just two years ago. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising energy and labor costs, has put immense pressure on our margins. Sourcing Struggles: Maintaining the consistent flavor profiles our customers love has become increasingly challenging. We've had to be more flexible in our sourcing, sometimes substituting origins or adjusting roast profiles to compensate for changes in bean characteristics. Pricing Predicaments: As a community-focused roaster, we're acutely aware of the impact price increases have on our customers. We've been forced to make difficult decisions about when and how to adjust our pricing to reflect the new market realities while remaining accessible to our loyal patrons. Crafting a Sustainable Future, One Bean at a Time Despite these challenges, we at Ember Coffee believe that this crisis presents an opportunity for positive change. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we're determined to emerge stronger and more sustainable. Here's how we're adapting: Nurturing Direct Trade Relationships: We're doubling down on our direct trade partnerships, offering long-term contracts at stable prices to our farmer partners. This approach not only secures our access to high-quality beans but also provides farmers with the financial security to invest in sustainable practices and climate adaptation measures. Diversifying Our Offerings: To offset rising costs and keep things exciting for our customers, we're expanding our product range. Limited edition micro-lots, experimental processing methods, and unique Minnesota-inspired coffee blends are just a few of the innovations we're exploring. Empowering Through Education: We believe that an informed customer is a loyal customer. We've launched a series on Roasting 101 on our YouTube site, and we're planning a Coffee 101 cupping sessions at our Big Lake roastery. These programs help our community understand the complexities of coffee production and pricing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft behind each cup. The Power of the Minnesota Coffee Lover As we navigate these challenges, the support and understanding of our customers are more crucial than ever. Here's how Minnesota coffee enthusiasts can contribute to a more sustainable coffee ecosystem: Embrace Transparency: We encourage our customers to ask questions about pricing, sourcing, and roasting practices. Understanding the true cost of producing exceptional coffee can help justify price adjustments when necessary. Value Quality Over Quantity: By choosing to invest in higher-quality, ethically sourced coffee, consumers can help support fair wages for farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Support Local Roasters: Minnesota's local roasters, like Ember Coffee, are deeply invested in our communities. By choosing local over national chains, consumers help keep money circulating in the local economy and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Experiment with Brewing Methods: Different brewing methods can extract unique flavors from coffee beans. By exploring various brewing techniques, consumers can maximize the value and enjoyment they get from each bag of coffee. Envisioning a Brighter Future for Minnesota Coffee As we look to the horizon, we see challenges, but also immense potential. Our vision for the future of specialty coffee in Minnesota is one of resilience, innovation, and community: A More Resilient Supply Chain: We're exploring collaborations with other Minnesota roasters to potentially secure better prices and more stable supply chains through collective purchasing power. Increased Local Collaboration: We envision a future where coffee is increasingly integrated into Minnesota's local food scene. Imagine coffee-infused craft beers, chocolate truffles featuring our single-origin roasts, or seasonal menus at local restaurants built around coffee pairings. Innovation in Sustainability: We're investing in research on more sustainable packaging options and exploring ways to upcycle coffee chaff and other by-products of the roasting process. Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing the value we create. A More Educated Consumer Base: Through continued education efforts, we aim to cultivate a community of coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup and understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions. Conclusion: United in Our Love for Great Coffee As the aroma of freshly roasted coffee continues to fill our roastery, we're reminded of why we do what we do. The current coffee price crisis is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges our industry has faced in decades. However, at Ember Coffee, we believe that by staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and community, we can not only weather this storm but emerge stronger on the other side. To our loyal customers and coffee lovers across Minnesota: your support during these turbulent times means more than you know. Every bag of Ember Coffee you purchase, every latte you enjoy in our cafe, is a vote for a more sustainable and equitable coffee future. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we remain committed to transparency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Together, we can ensure that Minnesota remains a beacon of excellence in the world of specialty coffee, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey, for your understanding during these difficult times, and for your unwavering love of great coffee. Here's to many more shared moments over a steaming cup of Minnesota's finest brew. Warmly,The Ember Coffee Team
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