Mushroom coffee – the special energy boost

Can't function without your morning coffee? We totally understand, and we'll show you how to make your energy boost even more effective. Mushroom coffee is the magic word. Find out what's behind this trendy drink, how to prepare it, and what effects mushroom coffee can have.

What is mushroom coffee?

In the USA, mushroom coffee has long been a popular hot beverage and superfood. It's gradually finding its way into online shops and supermarkets here as well. But what exactly is it? – Essentially, it's a beverage that combines the revitalizing ingredients of coffee and medicinal mushrooms. The products promise more energy and improved concentration. Mushroom coffee is either a ready-made powder made from instant or ground coffee and mushroom powder or extract, which you simply pour hot water over, or you add ground mushrooms or extracts to your regular coffee.

What does mushroom coffee taste like?

The taste varies depending on the coffee and medicinal mushroom used, so a general statement is hardly possible. Usually, the coffee aromas mask the actual mushroom flavor (which is sometimes a good thing, as many medicinal mushrooms don't have a pleasant taste). If you then add a little cinnamon or vanilla, you won't notice any unpleasant aftertaste . However, with some ready-made products (e.g., instant powders), the powder may dissolve poorly or settle. A gritty mouthfeel is possible.

Coffee made with mushrooms is typically milder because it requires less caffeine. This makes it a better choice for people who have trouble falling asleep in the evening after drinking coffee in the afternoon. The acidity is also said to be reduced by the antioxidants it contains.

Cordyceps coffee

Where does mushroom coffee come from?

And who would have guessed? The idea for mushroom coffee didn't originate in the USA or in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where medicinal mushrooms are commonly used. Mushrooms were used as an alternative to coffee in Europe during World War II. Real coffee was rare and expensive at that time. People therefore processed the chaga mushroom into an invigorating hot beverage. Chaga is common in Northern Europe, but the mushroom also grows in Germany.

What are the effects of mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee is said to mitigate the side effects of caffeine and have an invigorating and strengthening effect, thanks to the positive health properties of medicinal mushrooms . Heart palpitations, sleep problems, and heartburn should occur less frequently. In addition, there are the beneficial effects of the medicinal mushrooms themselves.

Arabica coffee – what can the bean do?

Over 85% of Germans drink coffee daily. For about 52% of coffee drinkers, it's even indispensable. Tastes are known to vary, so it's no surprise that entire shelves are filled with different coffee beans. Arabica is among the most popular coffee beans. But Robusta or a blend of both varieties is also a favorite. They differ in acidity, taste, and caffeine content. No matter which coffee bean you choose, in moderation, this stimulant is healthy.

Regular coffee consumption reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and may therefore extend life. This was observed in a long-term study. The underlying biological processes are still unclear.
Caffeine has an anti-inflammatory effect. This is believed to have a positive influence on liver metabolism. According to studies, around six cups of coffee a day can have a beneficial effect on people suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Caffeine makes you alert! This is because it blocks the adenosine receptor in the brain. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that makes us tired.
Think faster and learn better! Coffee is said to make it possible. The drink is also said to improve long-term memory.
Some preparation methods, such as espresso or French press, can also affect cholesterol levels. HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) is increased.
It can indirectly aid in weight loss. The bitter taste suppresses appetite and minimally increases energy expenditure.

Despite its positive effects, coffee isn't for everyone. Pregnant women should avoid excessive consumption, as it increases the likelihood of premature birth or low birth weight. People suffering from osteoporosis (bone loss) should also drink coffee only occasionally.

Coffee's health benefits

What effects do medicinal mushrooms from traditional Chinese medicine have?

Medicinal mushrooms are not a new trend, but rather an integral part of centuries-old healing methods. Recent research is making these mushrooms increasingly popular today, as some of their traditional uses have been confirmed in cell or animal studies. However, definitive proof from clinical trials in humans is still lacking. Here you will find some medicinal mushrooms and their potentially applicable uses:

Chaga mushroom → strengthens the immune system, improves performance
Cordyceps sinensis (caterpillar fungus) → Improves oxygen uptake, performance, and concentration
Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) → Increases vitality, reduces lethargy, stimulates nerve growth factors
Agaricus blazei murrill (almond mushroom) → Strengthening the immune system
Shiitake → Strengthening the immune system

It is suspected that antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, secondary plant compounds, beta-glucan, polysaccharides and other ingredients are responsible for the beneficial properties of medicinal mushrooms.

You can find out more about the unique life form of mushrooms, their effects, possible side effects, and other medicinal mushrooms in our blog post:

Medicinal mushrooms: Effects with a long tradition

medicinal mushrooms

What should you consider when buying medicinal mushrooms and mushroom coffee?

A mushroom acts like a filter of nature, meaning it can also be contaminated with certain heavy metals or toxins. Therefore, you should avoid products imported directly from Asia (mostly China). For your safety, medicinal mushrooms from the EU and organic quality with analysis and certification are a better choice. If necessary, ask about their origin!

At "smaints," we prioritize exceptional quality in our medicinal mushrooms. This ensures high bioavailability, a full spectrum of active ingredients, and a perfect fit for a delicious and healthy diet. Learn more about our quality standards here.

Mushroom Coffee – what is the perfect recipe?

Mushrooms, coffee, water – these are the basic ingredients for any mushroom coffee. But what sounds so simple can ultimately turn into a bit of a science in itself. Ready-made instant coffee powder, filter coffee with added mushroom powder, or perhaps your favorite coffee mixed with liquid extract? We advise against the first option, as instant coffee contains twice as much acrylamide as roasted coffee, and in our experience, it simply doesn't taste as good. Acrylamide is a substance that has been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies.

The perfect recipe for your mushroom coffee is individual and should start with your favorite coffee. The advantage: you can stick with your usual brewing method and your coffee grounds or beans. So it doesn't matter whether you use an espresso machine, filter coffee maker, or fully automatic machine: everything stays the same. If you're in a hurry or on the go, you can also use a coffee-to-go from your favorite coffee shop as a base.

Once the coffee is ready, all that's missing are the medicinal mushrooms. Simply stir in a teaspoon of smaints liquid extract, refine to taste with (plant-based) milk and spices of your choice, and your pick-me-up is ready. The smaints liquid extracts have a slightly sweet taste.

Tip : You can stir both Pure Focus with Cordyceps and Hericium and Pure Immune with Chaga mushroom and Agaricus (almond mushroom) into the mushroom coffee.

Recipe → Mushroom Coffee

Mushroom Coffee

For those new to medicinal mushrooms, our Cordyceps Mocha Latte is highly recommended. In addition to coffee, it contains (plant-based) milk, smaints Mushroom Cacao , vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. The cacao gives the mushroom coffee a lovely chocolatey flavor, perfectly complemented by the spices.

Go to recipe → Mocha Latte

If you want to completely forgo coffee but still need an energy boost to start your day, then we have several delicious recipes for you:

Benefits of mushroom coffee at a glance

A mushroom coffee will give you a great energy start to the day and help you overcome any afternoon slump.
The medicinal mushrooms are said to mitigate the side effects of caffeine. This way, you can sleep well even after a cup of coffee in the afternoon.
It combines the positive effects of coffee and medicinal mushrooms on your body in one drink.
As a bonus, you also ingest additional vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients.

Benefits of mushroom coffee with Smaints

Personalized coffee enjoyment. Whether you prefer Robusta beans or Arabica coffee, you can use your favorite coffee as a base .
Since our focus is on enjoyment, our Mushroom Coffee always tastes delicious. There is no noticeable unusual or bitter aftertaste.
You decide which medicinal mushroom goes into your coffee.
You can be sure that you will receive medicinal mushroom extracts of the highest quality and effectiveness.
You decide whether to add other ingredients such as sugar, spices or (vegan) milk to your mushroom coffee.
Full spectrum of activity and high bioavailability.
Delicious recipes for using liquid extracts and mushroom powder.
A clever combination of different medicinal mushrooms.