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- Mushroom tea contains adaptogens that help the body handle stress more effectively than regular tea.
- Lion’s Mane mushroom has been shown to stimulate NGF, potentially enhancing memory and focus.
- Reishi and Turkey Tail mushrooms exhibit immune-modulating properties that may support infection resistance.
- Studies suggest Chaga contains antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Some medicinal mushrooms may interact with medications or cause allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
What Is Mushroom Tea?
Mushroom tea is a drink made from certain mushrooms, not traditional tea leaves. People usually make it from dried mushroom slices, powders, or extracts. This earthy drink has no caffeine. And it has many different compounds that help health. Unlike green or black teas, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant, mushroom tea gets its power from things in the fungi, like beta-glucans, triterpenoids, and polysaccharides. People know these help the immune system and the body handle stress. Many people are now using plant-based things for wellness. So, mushroom tea is getting popular. It may help with brain function, immunity, handling stress, and other things.
A Brief History of Medicinal Mushroom Use
The use of medicinal mushrooms goes back thousands of years. And many cultures used them. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), mushrooms like Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Cordyceps, and Poria were thought of as very important. They were used to boost energy, live longer, and restore Qi. Qi is seen as the body’s life force energy.
In Siberia and parts of Northern Europe, people historically made a hot tea from Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) by indigenous tribes. They drank it during long, cold winters. It was meant to help them stay healthy and strong against the tough weather.
In Japanese Kampo medicine, Shiitake and Maitake mushrooms have been used to help digestion and support heart health.
And in Ayurvedic systems in India, mushrooms are thought of as “satvik”. This means they could calm the mind and give the body energy.
Now, Western medicine is starting to write down and study these old ways of using them. This helps science check if they really work for health.
Health Benefits of Mushroom Tea: What the Science Says
Drinking mushroom tea is not just a trend. More and more science studies support it. These studies show how different kinds of fungi may help health. Here are some health benefits of mushroom tea that science has looked at the most.
Immune Support
Medicinal mushrooms like Reishi and Turkey Tail have lots of beta-glucans. These are complex sugars. People know they can adjust and balance how the immune system reacts. These things can start and make macrophages, T-cells, and natural killer cells work better.
Studies show Reishi may help balance the immune response. It can make the immune system stronger or calmer, depending on what the body needs.
Anti-Inflammatory Power
Chaga and Turkey Tail are full of antioxidants like betulinic acid and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These help lower oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a main cause of long-term inflammation.
Studies in cells and animals show that triterpenoids and polysaccharides in these mushrooms may help with inflammation.
Cognitive Support and Neurogenesis
Lion’s Mane has hericenones and erinacines. These are compounds that studies show can boost nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein that is very important for growing new nerves and for brain plasticity.
Studies done in living things and in test tubes show Lion’s Mane may help fight diseases where the brain breaks down. And it may make memory and focus better.
Adaptogenic and Anti-Stress Benefits
Cordyceps is an adaptogen. This means it may help balance stress hormones like cortisol. And it may make the body stronger against tiredness, sickness, and hard physical work.
Cordyceps militaris may make athletic performance better. And it may lower oxidative damage.
Antioxidant and Anti-Tumor Activity
Several studies have looked at how mushrooms might help prevent or manage cancer. Studies show beta-glucans, lectins, and other compounds that affect the immune system may slow down tumor growth in studies.
Researchers are studying active polysaccharides from mushrooms very closely. They are looking at them as added treatments in cancer care.
Top Medicinal Mushrooms for Tea and Their Benefits
Each medicinal mushroom has its own special properties that may help health. Here are the top ones for tea and what they may do for you:
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Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
- People call it the "mushroom of immortality" in TCM
- It may help the immune system, lower stress, and make sleep better
- It has ganoderic acids. These may act against histamine and inflammation.
-
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
- It has many antioxidants, like melanin and SOD
- May lower inflammation and oxidative stress
- People traditionally used it for digestion and immunity
-
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
- It may help new nerves grow by boosting NGF
- May make memory, focus, and mood better
- It may possibly help treat early signs of dementia
-
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris / C. sinensis)
- It may make more ATP. This can boost stamina and endurance.
- It may make lungs work better. So, it might be good for athletes.
- In traditional use, people thought it helped sexual health
-
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
- It has PSP and PSK. Studies have looked at these compounds for their anti-cancer properties.
- May be good for gut health. It might help the good bacteria.
- People traditionally used it along with chemotherapy to support the immune system
-
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
- It may help control blood sugar and how the body uses insulin
- May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
- It may support the immune system with D-fraction polysaccharides
-
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
- People know it may help the heart and blood vessels because of eritadenine
- It may help skin stay healthy. And it may work against microbes naturally.
- It also has lots of vitamin D if it gets sunlight
-
Poria (Poria cocos)
- In TCM, people used it to get rid of "dampness". This is linked to bloating and puffiness.
- People traditionally suggested it for anxiety and trouble sleeping
- It is a mild diuretic. This means it can help the body get rid of water. It may support kidney health.
Mushroom Tea vs. Traditional Tea: A Comparative Analysis
Green and black teas give you antioxidants and can make you feel clear-headed. But mushroom tea may help the body handle stress and support the immune system. Here is how they are different:
| Feature | Mushroom Tea | Green/Black Tea |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | None | Moderate to high (20 to 70 mg per cup) |
| Adaptogens | Yes (e.g., Reishi, Cordyceps) | No |
| Help Immune System | Yes (e.g., Turkey Tail, Maitake) | Limited |
| Antioxidant Profile | High (especially in Chaga) | High (especially in green tea) |
| Cognitive Boost | Lion’s Mane may help new nerves grow | L-theanine helps reduce anxiety |
| Gut Health Support | Turkey Tail contains prebiotics | Mild to none |
| Stress Reduction | Yes, because of adaptogens like Reishi | Mild—thanks to L-theanine |
Mushroom tea can be a different choice or something you add to traditional teas. It may be good for supporting long-term health.
How to Make Mushroom Tea (Step-by-Step Guide)
You can buy mushroom tea blends that are ready to steep. But making your own from raw mushrooms may mean it is fresher and stronger.
Using Dried Mushroom Slices
- Measure 1 to 2 grams of dried mushrooms.
- Add to 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Simmer it on low heat for 30 to 60 minutes. Tougher mushrooms like Reishi might need more time.
- Strain the tea. You can add sweetener or flavor if you want.
Using Mushroom Powder
- Add 1 teaspoon of powder to a cup of hot (but not boiling) water.
- Stir it well or whisk it until it is all mixed in.
- Let it steep covered for 5 to 10 minutes if you need to; Strain it if there are bits at the bottom.
Tools You Can Use:
- French Press: easy to steep and strain in one step
- Thermos: keeps the tea hot during long steeps, especially on the go
- Teapot: user-friendly for multiple cups or group servings
Flavor Enhancers (Optional)
- Ginger or Turmeric for digestion
- Cinnamon or Cardamom for warmth
- Lemon or Orange Peel for brightness
- Honey or Maple Syrup for sweetness
DIY Mushroom Tea Blends for Targeted Benefits
You can mix mushrooms with herbs. This lets you make drinks for specific health goals. Here are some recipes that people like:
Calm + Sleep Tea
- Reishi + Chamomile + Lavender
- It may help you relax and sleep better
Brain Boost Brew
- Lion’s Mane + Rosemary + Lemon Peel
- It may help you think clearly, remember things, and focus
Immunity Shield
- Chaga + Ginger + Citrus Peel
- It may make the immune system strong and help digestion
High-Energy Elixir
- Cordyceps + Ginseng + Matcha
- It might be good before a workout or for long workdays
Feel free to design your own blends based on your wellness goals.
Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects
Most people can drink mushroom tea okay, but it’s important to use it carefully:
- Allergic Reactions: If you are allergic to molds or some fungi, be careful.
- Medication Interactions: Reishi may make blood thinners and blood pressure medications work more strongly.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Always ask a doctor or nurse—We don't have much information about this.
- Children: Not all mushrooms are good for kids; It's important to ask a doctor who treats children.
- Foraging Risks: You might pick the wrong wild mushrooms—Get them from places you trust or grow them yourself.
- Start Low: Start with 1–2g per day. See how your body reacts before you use more.
Starting Your Mushroom Tea: Tips for Newbies
If you are new to using these mushrooms for health, here are easy ways to start:
- Begin with one mushroom, like Reishi or Lion’s Mane, and see how it makes you feel or changes your energy.
- Pick powders or extracts that have been tested by a third party to ensure purity.
- Use mushroom grow kits to grow your own batch for complete quality control.
- Write in a wellness journal to keep track of symptoms, energy levels, and other changes over time.
Incorporating Mushroom Tea into Your Daily Routine
If you pick the right time and pair mushrooms well, it can make the effects of the tea stronger during the day:
- Morning: Cordyceps or Lion’s Mane with a touch of cacao or cinnamon for energy and to help your mind work well.
- Afternoon: Turkey Tail + green tea for mild caffeine with digestive and immune support.
- Evening: Reishi with chamomile or lemon balm supports sleep and emotional calm.
- Tip: Drink your mushroom tea and also try meditating or writing in a journal for enhanced self-awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drink mushroom tea every day?
Yes, but it’s wise to cycle every few weeks to allow your body to rest and recalibrate.
Is mushroom tea bitter?
Some are (Reishi), while others like Chaga are mild and pleasant—flavor additions help mask bitterness.
Does mushroom tea expire?
Dried mushrooms last 6–12 months in airtight containers. Powders may degrade faster—check expiration dates.
Can kids drink mushroom tea?
Generally, functional mushrooms are not intended for young children unless prescribed by a healthcare practitioner.
Is there caffeine in mushroom tea?
No, all mushrooms are naturally caffeine-free—ideal for those avoiding stimulants.
How to Grow Your Own Mushrooms
Growing mushrooms at home is a cheaper way to get your own organic supply. And it's not as hard as you might think.
What You’ll Need:
- Grain spawn: Used to start growth on a substrate
- Liquid cultures: For growing carefully so there is little risk of getting unwanted things in it
- Substrate: Material like sawdust, straw, or grain where mushrooms grow
- Drying Gear: Things like dehydrators or low-temp ovens. They help keep the mushrooms strong for months.
Zombie Mushrooms has grow kits that are easy for beginners featuring Lion’s Mane and Reishi—all important types for tea blends. With minimal space and maintenance, you can make sure you have mushrooms to make tea all year.
Is Mushroom Tea Better Than Regular Tea?
Mushroom tea is a different and possibly strong alternative to traditional teas. If you want help with your immune system, clear thinking, or handling stress, mushroom tea might be better than your daily green tea. These fungi may not replace the cozy feeling of black or green tea for everyone. But they turn your daily cup into a health drink. It's backed by hundreds of years of knowledge and new science.
Ready to improve how you take care of yourself? Start drinking mushroom tea today and maybe feel better.
References
- Song FQ, Liu Y, Kong XS, Chang W, Song G. Progress on understanding the anticancer mechanisms of medicinal mushroom: inonotus obliquus. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2013;14(3):1571-8. doi: 10.7314/apjcp.2013.14.3.1571. PMID: 23679238.
- Wasser SP. Medicinal mushroom science: Current perspectives, advances, evidences, and challenges. Biomed J. 2014 Nov-Dec;37(6):345-56. doi: 10.4103/2319-4170.138318. PMID: 25179726.
- Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2008). Hericenones and erinacines: Stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) biosynthesis in Hericium erinaceus. Experimental Neurology, 211(1), 199–206.
- Jędrejko KJ, Lazur J, Muszyńska B. Cordyceps militaris: An Overview of Its Chemical Constituents in Relation to Biological Activity. Foods. 2021 Oct 30;10(11):2634. doi: 10.3390/foods10112634. PMID: 34828915; PMCID: PMC8622900.
