On social media recently, it’s likely that you’ve seen people posting about mushroom coffee. This beverage consists of regular coffee or tea mixed with medicinal mushrooms known for their healing benefits such as chaga, lion’s mane, reishi cordyceps or turkey tail; unlike culinary varieties found at grocery stores which may require fresh extraction in order to offer medicinal effects.

These extracts are then mixed with ground coffee beans to produce mushroom coffee, which usually tastes similar to regular coffee. Most brands recommend stirring in milk or cream for enhanced flavor and texture; some people describe its taste as having an earthy nutty quality while others may not even notice a difference between it and regular joe.

Many brands tout the health benefits of mushroom coffee, including potential boosts to energy levels, an enhanced immune system, reduced stress levels and weight loss aiding effects. Unfortunately, little scientific data backs these claims; most information available regarding this new beverage comes from tests performed on animals in test tubes or individual anecdotes; plus its cost can be prohibitive as most blends cost twice what regular coffee would.

Mushrooms are considered adaptogens, plants that help the body cope with stress more easily. According to research, mushrooms contain many antioxidants which may protect against inflammation and promote cardiovascular health. Chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus) have been noted as high in polysaccharides which may reduce oxidative stress as well as inhibit tumor growth according to preclinical studies; Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have also been associated with improved cardiovascular health, decreased cancer rates and reduced inflammation.

Yeast infections are caused by excessive amounts of Candida albicans, an easily found yeast found on your mouth, skin and vaginal area. An overgrowth can be brought on by high sugar diets, antibiotics or stress and lead to painful yeast infections or even more serious fungal infections that could potentially be fatal without treatment.

While some individuals claim mushroom coffee can relieve yeast infections, there’s limited scientific support to back this claim up. Instead, it may be more effective to focus on healthy eating and lifestyle changes, like drinking plenty of water and getting sufficient sleep, to combat Candida overgrowth. Also be sure to speak with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian nutritionist prior to trying any new health supplements like mushroom coffee.