Mushrooms are having a moment in the wellness world, with mushroom powder, extract, tonics and even gummies being praised for their healing properties. One recent addition to the trend is mushroom decaf coffee, a blend of regular coffee with medicinal mushrooms such as chaga, reishi and lion’s mane. But is this trendy beverage worth the hype?

In a typical blend, the mushrooms are mixed with equal parts ground coffee beans. The resulting drink often tastes similar to a normal cup of joe. The makers of these brews claim the mushrooms add extra health benefits to your day such as reduced anxiety, increased energy and improved immunity.

Mushroom Decaf Coffee: The Best of Both Worlds

The mushrooms used in mushroom coffee go through a drying and extraction process before being combined with the coffee grounds. The purportedly healthful ingredients extracted from the mushrooms are known as adaptogens, a class of plant-based compounds that help improve the body’s response to stress. They also contribute to focus, boost immunity, protect the nervous system and support digestion.

However, the majority of research on these mushrooms has been conducted in test tubes and animals, so more human studies are needed to confirm their health claims. Additionally, some of the specific mushrooms found in these brews (particularly chaga) can be hard on the digestive system and may raise your risk of developing kidney stones.

Lastly, most mushroom brews contain caffeine, which is a stimulant that can cause headaches, nausea and jitteriness for some people. For this reason, it’s important to speak with your doctor before trying this type of brew, especially if you have any existing health conditions.