The Benefits of Mushroom Tea
Mushroom tea has become an increasingly popular beverage due to its potential health benefits. Made by steeping dried or powdered mushroom fruit bodies in hot water, mushroom teas are touted for their ability to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote general wellness.
Some of the most common mushrooms used to make tea are:
- Chaga
- Cordyceps
- Lion's mane
- Reishi
- Shiitake
- Turkey tail
Research suggests that drinking mushroom tea may offer the following benefits:
- Boost immune system function - Compounds like polysaccharides in mushrooms may support white blood cell activity.
- Reduce inflammation - Anti-inflammatory compounds in mushrooms may help lower inflammation.
- Support heart health - Antioxidants in mushrooms may protect heart health.
- Improve gut health - Prebiotics in mushrooms may feed beneficial gut bacteria.
- Enhance brain function - Nourishing compounds in mushrooms may boost brain health.
- Increase energy levels - Adaptogens in mushrooms may help increase energy.
- Fight aging - Antioxidants in mushrooms may combat cell damage.
That said, more research is still needed to fully understand the health effects of mushroom teas. Talk to your doctor before using mushroom tea medicinally.
Choosing the Best Mushrooms for Tea
With so many edible mushroom varieties available, which ones make the best tea? Here are some of the top choices:
Chaga
Chaga mushrooms grow on birch trees in cold climates. Valued in Russia and parts of Europe for centuries, chaga is rich in antioxidants. Some research suggests chaga can boost immunity, fight inflammation, and support cardiovascular health. Its earthy flavor pairs well with black tea.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms have been used for medicinal purposes in China for thousands of years. Some studies indicate cordyceps may enhance exercise performance and improve symptoms of fatigue. Cordyceps has an earthy, nutty flavor that goes well with green or herbal teas.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane is known for its unique, shaggy appearance. Used in traditional Chinese medicine, lion’s mane contains bioactive compounds that may help protect brain health and support cognitive function. It has a slightly sweet, seafood-like flavor.
Reishi
Reishi mushrooms are sometimes called the “mushroom of immortality” due to their legendary status in China. Modern research suggests reishi may stimulate the immune system, ease stress, fight fatigue, and support heart health. Reishi has an earthy, bitter taste that pairs well with ginger.
Shiitake
A popular edible mushroom, shiitake is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds like lentinan. Some research finds shiitake may boost immune defense, cardiovascular health, and anti-aging processes. It has an umami, meaty taste that works nicely with green tea.
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail mushrooms grow throughout the world in woodland areas. Used for centuries in East Asia, turkey tail may help strengthen the immune system and support gut health. It has an earthy, mildly sweet flavor that complements herbal blends.
How to Make Mushroom Tea
Ready to reap the benefits of mushroom tea? Follow these simple steps to make your own medicinal mushroom brew at home:
Ingredients
- 1-2 teaspoons dried mushroom pieces or mushroom powder
- 8 ounces boiling water
- Tea bag, herbs, or other tea (optional)
- Raw honey, lemon, ginger, etc. to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a small pot or electric kettle.
- Place dried mushroom pieces or powder in a tea cup or teapot.
- Pour the boiling water over the mushroom. Let steep for at least 10 minutes.
- For a more robust mushroom tea, optionally add a green tea bag, herbal tea, ginger, lemon, honey, or other ingredients to the water while it steeps.
- Strain the finished tea through a fine mesh strainer before drinking to remove any gritty mushroom pieces.
- Enjoy the earthy mushroom tea hot or chilled over ice. Add more boiling water to get a second infusion if desired.
Tips
- Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried mushroom material per cup of boiled water for strongest infusion.
- Simmer powdered mushrooms for 15-20 minutes to extract maximum benefits.
- Play around with different mushroom blends to create your perfect custom tea.
- Drink mushroom tea daily to support overall wellness.
- Store unused mushroom tea in the refrigerator and reheat or enjoy over ice.
Potential Side Effects and Safety
For most people, drinking moderate amounts of mushroom tea is considered safe. However, there are some potential side effects and precautions to keep in mind:
- Allergic reactions - Allergies to mushrooms are rare but possible. Discontinue use if any reactions occur.
- Medication interactions - Mushroom compounds may interact with certain medications like immunosuppressants. Speak with your doctor first if taking any medications.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding - Mushroom teas are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women due to lack of safety research.
- Children - Mushroom tea is not recommended for children without medical supervision.
- Dosing - Stick to recommended mushroom dosages. Larger amounts may cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea.
- Quality - Purchase high-quality mushroom products from reputable suppliers to ensure safety.
If you experience any negative symptoms after drinking mushroom tea, stop consuming it and speak with your healthcare provider.
The Bottom Line
Mushroom tea made from chaga, reishi, lion's mane, and other mushroom varieties may offer a range of potential wellness benefits. With an earthy, rich flavor, mushroom tea can be a tasty and healthy addition to your tea rotation.
Speak with your doctor before using medicinal mushrooms, especially if you take any medications or have underlying health conditions. When sourced properly and consumed safely, a daily cup or two of mushroom tea may support immune health, cognition, energy, and more.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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