How To Choose Mushroom Coffee (A Personal Experience Guide)

Learning how to choose mushroom coffee could be the single decision that saves you from a dreadful coffee experience.

I might've raised an eyebrow a few years ago if you told me you were drinking mushroom coffee. But today? It’s a $2.7 billion market, projected to hit $4.3 billion by 2032.

People, including me, are waking up to a better way to drink coffee. You know, one that keeps you sharp without the crash. 

I’ve been in the coffee industry for long and have seen trends come and go. But mushroom coffee isn’t just hype. It’s the future of coffee.

I'm James Bellis, founder of Balance Coffee, a coffee entrepreneur and biohacker. With 12+ years in the industry, I hold an SCA Coffee Skills Diploma and specialise in healthy coffee, biohacking, and adaptogenic mushrooms. Full bio here.

For years, I struggled with the ups and downs of regular coffee. One cup felt great but by midday? I’d crash hard.

It became why I began looking into biohacking, adaptogens, and coffee that works with your body. And not against it.

But here’s the thing: not all mushroom coffees are created equal. Some brands use cheap fillers, weak extracts, or low-grade beans. That means you’re not getting the real benefits.

To beat that, I teamed up with Clementine Rose, a registered nutritionist, to break it all down for you. I’ll tell you exactly how to choose mushroom coffee so you can get all its health benefits.

But first, here is a bit about Clementine Rose:

Clementine Rose is a BANT-registered nutritional therapist specialising in gut health, hormones, and weight management. She works with Google’s Kyros Project and Balance Coffee, ensuring nutritionally refined products. Full bio here.

Mushroom Coffee Laid Bare If You Are Just Starting Out

If you’re new to mushroom coffee, I get it, it sounds weird. Coffee with mushrooms? What’s next, kale lattes? But this isn’t about tossing random mushrooms into your cup. 

Mushroom coffee blends high-quality coffee beans with powerful, science-backed mushrooms to create a healthier coffee experience.

When I first started exploring this healthy coffee, I had many questions. Is mushroom coffee good for you?

Too Many Questions And Needed Answers

Does it work? What’s the best type? How long does it take to feel the benefits of mushroom coffee? 

So I sat down with Clemmie Rose, a registered nutritionist, to break it all down.

We both agreed mush coffee can be a game-changer, but only if you’re drinking the right kind. 

Mush coffee is exactly what it sounds like: regular coffee infused with medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Reishi. 

But don’t worry, it doesn’t taste like mushrooms. When done right, it tastes like rich, smooth coffee with added health benefits.

The idea is simple: you get the energy and flavour of coffee without the downsides. Medicinal mushrooms help balance caffeine’s effects, so you stay focused and alert without the jitters or crashes.

Here are the most commonly used mushrooms with coffee, along with what science says about them:

Mushroom	Key Benefit	Scientific Backing
Lion’s Mane	Enhances cognitive function and nerve regeneration	Studies published in News Medical suggest Lion’s Mane promotes nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which aids in neuroprotection and cognitive function.
Chaga	Boosts immune function and provides antioxidant support	Rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants, Chaga has been linked to immune enhancement and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cordyceps	Increases energy, stamina, and oxygen uptake	Research indicates Cordyceps may improve athletic performance by increasing ATP production and oxygen utilization.
Reishi	Promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and sleep quality	Reishi contains triterpenoids and polysaccharides that support stress reduction and improve sleep patterns.
Turkey Tail	Supports gut health and strengthens the immune system	Turkey Tail is well-documented for its prebiotic effects on gut bacteria and its role in enhancing immune response.

What You Should Look For While Choosing Quality Mushroom Coffee

I know you’re still thinking, how do I choose the best mushroom coffee to power through my hectic days?

Well, there is no short answer to that. But below, Clemmie and I have summarised our years of research and testing experience with mushroom coffee so you can make an informed decision.

Purity & Sourcing

The quality of mushrooms and coffee beans directly impacts their benefits. If they’re grown in contaminated soil or sprayed with pesticides, you’re not getting the clean, potent benefits you signed up for.

• Organic & Toxin-Free - Always choose certified organic mushrooms and speciality coffee to avoid pesticides and heavy metals. Poorly sourced mushrooms can absorb toxins from the environment.

• Mycotoxin & Mould-Free - Some coffee (and mushrooms) can be contaminated with mycotoxins, harmful compounds linked to brain fog and fatigue. The best brands test for mycotoxins and mould to ensure purity.

• Sustainably Sourced - Quality mushroom coffee brands use ethically and sustainably farmed mushrooms. This ensures long-term soil health and better nutrient content.

Extraction & Potency (What’s Inside Counts)

One of the most important things I want you to check when you ask yourself, ‘how to pick the best mushroom coffee’ is its extraction technique and potency.

You're not getting the full benefits if your mushroom coffee isn’t properly extracted. 

Here’s what to check

• Dual-Extraction vs. Single Extraction – The best mushroom coffees use dual extraction, meaning they extract beneficial compounds using both hot water (for beta-glucans) and alcohol (for triterpenoids and other fat-soluble compounds). Single-extraction products miss out on key bioactive elements.

• Fruiting Body vs. Mycelium - Always choose fruiting body extracts. This is the mushroom, rich in beta-glucans (the compounds that boost immunity and cognitive function). Many brands use mycelium, which is grown on grain and contains fewer active compounds.

• Beta-Glucan Percentage - The real power of medicinal mushrooms comes from beta-glucans, which are scientifically linked to immune support, stress reduction, and focus. Look for a product that clearly states its beta-glucan content (ideally 20% or higher, as recommended in this study published in PudMed).

Coffee Quality Matters Too

Even if the mushrooms are top-notch, bad coffee will ruin the experience. Here’s what makes a smooth, balanced cup:

• Arabica vs. Robusta - Arabica beans are the best choice for shroom coffee. Arabica coffee is naturally lower in bitterness and acidity, with a smoother taste. Robusta is harsher and contains more caffeine, which can lead to jitters. Read about Arabica vs Robusta here.

• Low-Acid & Specialty-Grade Beans - If you struggle with acid reflux or digestive issues, look for a low-acid coffee. Specialty-grade beans (the top 5% of all coffee) provide a cleaner, more refined flavour.

• Roasting & Freshness - Coffee loses its flavour and antioxidant properties over time. The best coffee bean brands roast fresh beans and use nitrogen-sealed packaging to preserve the aroma and benefits.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

When I first started exploring coffee and mushroom blends, I was drawn in by “premium quality” labels until I realised that premium doesn’t always mean better.

Here’s how to make sure you’re truly getting the benefits of mushroom coffee:

1. Low Mushroom Extract Content

Some blends might showcase the mushroom name but contain only minimal extract, which won’t do much for focus, immunity, or energy.

The ideal amount depends on your body weight, sensitivity, and overall health.

What to look for

• Aim for at least 500mg of mushroom extract per serving (ideally between 500mg and 2000mg).

• Check that the label specifies the type of extract and the percentage of beta-glucans - the active compounds that matter.

• If the label only mentions “mushroom powder” without extraction details, it might be time to look for a better option.

2. Falling for Brands Using Mycelium Instead of Fruiting Body

This is the biggest scam in the mushroom coffee space. Some brands use mycelium, which is basically the root system of mushrooms. Sounds fine, right? Wrong.

Most mycelium is grown on grain (like rice or oats), which means you’re drinking mostly filler, not mushrooms. 

The real benefits come from the fruiting body—the actual cap and stem of the mushroom.

How to avoid this:

• Only buy mushroom coffee that explicitly states “fruiting body extracts.”

• If you see “mycelium on grain” in the ingredients? That’s a red flag. I’d say you’re mostly paying for starch, not mushrooms.

• Brands that don’t list what part of the mushroom they use? Assume they’re cutting corners.

I asked Clementine about this, and she said, “If a brand isn’t using fruiting body extracts, you’re not getting the real health benefits. Mycelium on grain is just a cheap filler.”

3. Overpaying for Low-Quality Blends

Just because a mushroom coffee brand charges premium prices doesn’t mean it delivers premium quality. 

Many brands spend more on fancy marketing than sourcing quality ingredients.

How to avoid this:

• Check for dual-extracted mushrooms, organic certification, and beta-glucan content

• Look for transparency - brands should clearly state where their mushrooms come from and how they’re processed

• If a brand is vague about details but has flashy ads and influencer hype? You’re probably paying for marketing, not quality.

• Look for reviews. If a brand has bad reviews, you have your answer.

Mushroom Coffee (Depending On Your Needs)

As you think about how to choose mushroom coffee, you also need to consider your needs. 

It isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re drinking it for health benefits, choose a blend that matches your needs:

Mushroom Coffee Type	Best For	Key Benefits	Best Time to Drink
Lion’s Mane Coffee	Focus & Productivity	Boosts cognitive function, supports nerve growth, and enhances memory and focus.	Morning or early afternoon
Cordyceps Coffee	Energy & Endurance	Increases stamina, supports oxygen uptake, and improves athletic performance.	Pre-workout, mid-morning, or afternoon pick-me-up
Reishi Coffee	Relaxation & Stress Relief	Reduces stress, balances cortisol levels, and promotes deep relaxation and sleep.	Evening or post-work to relax
Turkey Tail & Chaga Coffee	Gut Health & Immunity	Supports gut health, provides prebiotics for digestion, and boosts the immune system.	Morning or with meals for gut health support

Mushroom Coffee Products I’ve Used with Great Results

Over the years, I kept asking myself, how to choose mushroom coffee that’s worth it? 

So, I tested dozens of mushroom coffee products - some amazing, some overhyped. I also tested the best adaptogenic mushroom supplements to improve my health.

My goal was always the same: a clean, effective coffee that fuels my mind and body without the jitters or crashes.

And after a lot of experimentation, here are my top three picks if you want to enjoy mushroom coffee benefits too:

1. Balance Coffee’s Lion’s Mane Coffee 

When I created Balance Coffee’s Lion’s Mane Coffee, I wanted something that wasn’t just another “functional coffee” but a real performance upgrade. 

So, I combined high-quality Arabica beans with a dual-extracted Lion’s Mane mushroom, known for enhancing cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity.

How I Brewed It

I tested it in multiple ways:

• French Press: Full-bodied, rich, and smooth—my personal favourite.

• AeroPress: A slightly cleaner, brighter cup with more pronounced citrus notes.

• Espresso Machine: Bold and concentrated, but still incredibly smooth.

The taste? Incredibly balanced. No overpowering earthy mushroom flavours, just a clean, medium-roast coffee with a hint of natural sweetness and zero bitterness. 

If you’re used to regular high-quality coffee, this doesn’t feel like a “health drink”—it’s just good coffee with extra benefits.

How It Felt

The first thing I noticed? Steady focus without the caffeine rollercoaster. 

I used to rely on multiple cups of coffee to stay sharp throughout the day, but with Lion’s Mane, I felt clear-headed and dialled in for hours.

After a few weeks, my focus improved beyond just the caffeine effects. 

I wasn’t getting the usual brain fog after long work sessions—I could push through tasks without that afternoon slump.

What I Love About It

• Clean energy - No jitters, no afternoon crash that you get with regular, commercial coffee.

• Laser focus - Perfect for deep work, problem-solving, and creative thinking, a daily routine for me as a business owner.

• Smooth taste - No overpowering earthy mushroom flavours, which I love.

And it goes without saying, but I also tested my Lion’s mane mushroom coffee against all the criteria I mentioned for how to choose mushroom coffee.

Click here to start getting better focus and improve mental clarity.

2. Balance Coffee’s Mushroom Elixirs

Tinctures weren’t originally part of my routine, but I realised how powerful they were once I started using them. 

Then, I decided to develop, test and regularly use mushroom tinctures at Balance Coffee. Each is dual-extracted to maximise potency and can be added to coffee or independently.

At Balance Coffee, we have Lion’s Mane mushroom drops perfect for increasing mental clarity and focus (my personal favourite).

I add a full dropper to my morning coffee, which sharpens my concentration without overstimulation.

How I Take Them

After a long day, the Reishi mushroom tincture drops are my go-to for unwinding and improving sleep quality. I mix it into herbal tea at night, and it genuinely helps me relax and sleep deeper.

Chaga mushroom tincture drops are my go-to when I need an immune boost since they contain antioxidants. I usually add it to my morning coffee or a smoothie, especially if I feel run down. 

Cordyceps mushroom tincture drops, on the other hand, are my secret weapon for workouts. Mixing it with water or tea before training gives me a noticeable stamina boost, making exercise feel easier without relying on extra caffeine.

How It Feels

The effects were subtle at first but noticeable with the mushroom tinctures. Unlike a stimulant, it wasn’t an instant jolt of energy. It was more like my brain and body were just functioning better.

Lion’s Mane gave me a sharper mental edge, especially when combined with coffee.

Cordyceps made workouts feel easier - less fatigue and better endurance. Reishi helped me sleep better, which, in turn, improved my focus the next day.

Chaga felt like an immune “shield” - I found myself using this more.

But I noticed all of these effects after consuming them for 2+ years.

What I Love About Them

• Total Control - I can dial up or down my dose depending on what I need - more Lion’s Mane for focus, Reishi to unwind, or Cordyceps for an energy kick.

• Pure & Potent - No weak powders here. These are dual-extracted fruiting body mushrooms, meaning maximum strength and real results.

• Effortless to Use - No brewing, no pills, just a few drops in coffee, tea, or a smoothie and I’m good to go.

• Clean & Organic - No fillers, no grain-based mycelium; just pure, high-quality.

• They Work. Period. - Sharper focus, better workouts, deeper sleep, stronger immunity. I feel the difference.

You should check out my review of the best mushroom tinctures for more options.

Click here to try out mushroom tinctures to start breathing health in each cup.

3. Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee

Before launching Balance Coffee, I also asked myself, ‘how do I choose mushroom coffee?’ and experimented with many mushroom coffee brands. 

Four Sigmatic was one of the first I tried, and they’ve done a great job making mushroom coffee mainstream. 

Their instant mix with Lion’s Mane and Chaga is convenient and offers a decent mental lift.

How I Brewed It

Since it’s an instant coffee, the brewing process was straightforward:

• Hot Water: Mixed instantly - smooth, earthy, with a mild coffee flavour.

• Milk Frother: Hot oat milk was added and blended for a creamier texture.

• Cold Brew Style: Stirred into cold water, but it took longer to dissolve fully.

The taste? Decent for an instant mix. It has an earthy, slightly nutty undertone from the mushrooms, but the coffee itself is milder than freshly brewed options.

How It Felt

The first thing I noticed? A steady, calm focus without the usual caffeine jitters. The Lion’s Mane helped with mental clarity, and Chaga’s antioxidant benefits made it feel like a cleaner energy boost.

• There was no caffeine crash, but the energy wasn’t as long-lasting as brewed mushroom coffee.

• A decent brain boost but less noticeable than a high-quality dual-extracted Lion’s Mane coffee.

• It is super convenient, especially for travel or quick coffee breaks.

What I Love About It

• Easy & Instant - Just mix with hot water—no brewing needed.
  Decent Brain Boost - The Lion’s Mane gives a mild cognitive lift without overstimulation.
  Good for Travel - Perfect for when I’m on the go and don’t have access to freshly brewed coffee.

What It Lacks

• Lower Mushroom Dosage - Doesn’t match the potency of fresh-brewed mushroom coffee or tinctures.

• Instant Coffee Flavour - Doesn’t have the depth or richness of freshly ground beans.

Click here to try it for yourself

Use These Brewing Methods To Enjoy Mushroom Coffee

Now that you know how to choose mushroom coffee, here are some tips on brewing it for amazing flavours.

Brew Method	Why It Works
French Press	Rich, full-bodied flavour with better extraction of mushroom compounds. Perfect for those who enjoy a deep, bold cup.
Espresso	Strong, concentrated, and smooth—great for making lattes with added functional benefits.
Drip Coffee Maker	Classic and convenient, producing a clean, balanced taste. Works well for daily routine drinkers.
Instant	The easiest option—just mix with hot water. Perfect for travel or busy mornings.

When to Drink Mushroom Coffee

Morning → Best for focus and productivity. Lion’s Mane or Cordyceps blends work great here.
Afternoon → Ideal for an energy boost without disrupting sleep. Cordyceps for stamina or Chaga for immunity.
Night → In my opinion, you should go caffeine-free with Reishi to unwind and support relaxation. Best taken as a warm, soothing drink before bed.

Conclusion

Clemmie and I have been testing, researching and working with mushroom coffee for many years.

I’ve seen the benefits firsthand, and now that you know how to choose mushroom coffee, you can, too. 

So, get your first mushroom coffee blend and make your coffee experience healthier than ever.