Mushroom coffee might sound a little bizarre, but the superfood trend is officially here to stay. You can’t scroll through social media without seeing mushroom coffee lattes, latte art and more. The coffee alternative, which combines coffee grounds with medicinal mushrooms like chaga, lion’s mane and cordyceps, has been praised for its cognitive benefits, anti-aging properties and sleep-enhancing powers. It’s also claimed to help reduce anxiety and boost immune system function.

The fad has been gbmushrooms.net by everyone from Kourtney Kardashian to Gwyneth Paltrow, who invested in the company that produces her favorite mushroom brew, Clevr Blends. Mushroom coffees are typically low in caffeine (though some brands have more) and can be a good option for anyone looking to cut back on caffeine or those with sensitive stomachs that might react to the stimulant.

How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Mushroom Coffee

Several of the most popular mushroom coffee blends on the market combine a serving of ground, instant coffee with the same amount of dried mushroom extracts. The resulting beverage tastes very similar to traditional coffee, although it may have a slightly earthier flavor depending on the type of mushrooms used and how much is added.

According to a recent study published in 2021 in the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, adaptogens, the group of herbs and mushrooms found in most mushroom coffee products, can reduce the stress hormone cortisol and improve overall mental health. While these benefits are promising, it’s still important to eat a balanced diet of whole foods, including fruits and vegetables, plant proteins and fats and more.