If you’re a coffee lover, you may have noticed the growing trend of “coffee mushrooms.” This new brew combines the familiarity of coffee with functional mushrooms and other natural ingredients to create a caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich beverage that has been praised for health benefits. Mushroom coffee isn’t a new concept—it was actually used as a replacement for regular coffee in Finland during World War II, and there’s a long history of culinary and medicinal use in many cultures. Medicinal mushrooms like those found in many of these coffee blends may have immune-boosting properties and can help boost cognitive function. They also contain compounds with antimicrobial, antifungal, and anticancer properties. Coffee Mushroom: The Perfect Blend for Wellness Some brands have taken this simple mix and paired it with other energy-boosting herbs to create unique flavor combinations that may offer even more health benefits. For example, Solve Labs’ mushroom coffee is made with lion’s mane to support cognitive efficiency and rhodiola rosea for stress reduction. Others have included adaptogenic herbs, such as chaga or ashwagandha, to help the body cope with oxidative stress. The best mushroom coffees will have clean, high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted sources. Look for brands that source their coffee beans organically and pay attention to cultivation, roasting, and grinding techniques. They should also be transparent about the dosing of each mushroom and the corresponding compound per serving, as different mushrooms and their compounds have specific recommended dosages for optimal efficacy. Finally, be sure to check the Nutrition Facts label for any added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can contribute to excess calories. Additionally, some of these mixes contain coconut milk or fats, which can add a small amount of saturated fat to your diet.