Mushroom Tea Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Make It at Home

Over the past few years, mushroom tea has exploded in popularity, showing up in cafes, holistic health blogs, and even on supermarket shelves. It might sound strange at first—mushrooms in your tea? But once you dive into the world of medicinal mushrooms, you’ll quickly understand why so many people are trading their morning coffee or green tea for this earthy, health-packed drink.

Mushroom tea is not new. It has been part of traditional medicine practices for centuries, especially in countries like China, Russia, and Japan. What’s new is the wave of wellness influencers, biohackers, and herbalists bringing it to modern audiences. With people increasingly focused on immune health, mental clarity, stress relief, and gut support, mushroom tea is hitting the sweet spot. It’s a functional beverage that blends centuries of wisdom with current health trends.

So, what exactly is mushroom tea? At its core, it’s a tea-like infusion made by steeping dried medicinal mushrooms in hot water. You can also find it in powder form or even as pre-blended tea bags. It has a deep, earthy flavor, kind of like the forest in a cup, and it’s packed with nutrients and compounds that offer real, science-backed benefits. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, improve your focus, reduce stress, or just try something new, mushroom tea offers a gentle yet powerful way to support your well-being.

In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know: what mushroom tea actually is, its most talked-about health benefits, any side effects to watch for, how to brew it at home, and where to find quality options. We’ll also break down the different mushroom types like reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, cordyceps, and turkey tail so you know which one fits your needs best. Ready to sip smarter? Let’s dive in.

What Is Mushroom Tea?

Mushroom tea is a type of herbal infusion made by steeping or simmering medicinal mushrooms in hot water. Think of it as a blend between a health tonic and a cup of tea, delivering a range of bioactive compounds directly into your system with each sip. Unlike culinary mushrooms that you’d sauté for dinner, these mushrooms are usually tougher and more fibrous. That’s why they’re better suited for brewing, not chewing.

Traditionally, mushroom tea has deep roots in Eastern medicine. For centuries, it’s been used to promote longevity, resilience, and internal balance. Ancient healers didn’t have the scientific terminology we use today, but they knew these mushrooms supported energy, immunity, and mental clarity. Reishi, for example, was once reserved for emperors due to its revered health properties.

Today, mushroom tea is made in several ways. You can use whole dried mushrooms, mushroom powders, or even extracts. For the traditional method, you simmer the mushrooms gently in water for 20 to 60 minutes. This slow simmering process helps to extract all the active compounds. For convenience, many modern consumers prefer mushroom powders that dissolve quickly in hot water, offering a faster yet still effective option.

The taste of mushroom tea is definitely earthy and slightly bitter, but that can vary depending on the type of mushroom used. Chaga tea, for instance, has a slightly sweet, vanilla-like flavor. Reishi has a more bitter profile, while lion’s mane tends to be milder and nutty. You can adjust the flavor with natural additions like ginger, cinnamon, lemon, or raw honey.

Common mushrooms used in tea include:

• Reishi for calming and immune health
• Chaga for antioxidant support
• Lion’s Mane for brain health
• Cordyceps for energy

• Turkey Tail for gut and immune support

Whether you're brewing it old-school with whole mushrooms or stirring in a powdered blend, mushroom tea is a versatile and functional drink that’s more than just a trend—it’s a daily ritual with real benefits.

Health Benefits of Mushroom Tea

1. Supports Immune Health

One of the biggest reasons people turn to mushroom tea is for immune support, and it’s not just marketing hype. Medicinal mushrooms are loaded with compounds like beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenes that are known to strengthen the body’s natural defenses. These compounds act like a wake-up call for your immune cells, helping them respond more effectively to pathogens and keeping you healthier overall.

Beta-glucans, in particular, are one of the most well-studied components. They help activate macrophages and natural killer cells, which are crucial in identifying and destroying harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells. Drinking mushroom tea regularly provides a steady, gentle boost to this system, helping you fight off infections before they take hold.

Reishi and turkey tail mushrooms are some of the best choices when your goal is immune support. Reishi works as an immunomodulator, meaning it can either stimulate or calm the immune system as needed. That’s important for people who deal with chronic inflammation or autoimmune issues. Turkey tail contains two powerful compounds, PSP and PSK, which have been studied for their immune-boosting and even anti-tumor properties.

Another bonus? Mushroom tea supports long-term resilience. Unlike synthetic supplements that can overstimulate your immune system, mushrooms work in harmony with your body. They teach your immune cells how to function better without overreacting. It’s like sending your internal army to boot camp so they’re always ready without being on high alert 24/7.

In a world where everyone’s looking for natural ways to stay healthy, mushroom tea offers a simple, time-tested solution. A warm cup a day could be a small step that leads to major improvements in your overall immune function.

2. Helps with Stress and Anxiety

Modern life is stressful, and our bodies aren’t built to handle constant pressure. That’s where adaptogens come in—natural substances that help your body adapt to physical, emotional, and environmental stress. Medicinal mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane are some of the most powerful adaptogens available, and mushroom tea is one of the easiest ways to incorporate them into your routine.

Reishi is known as the “queen of mushrooms” for good reason. It has calming effects on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. When brewed into a tea, it becomes a gentle evening ritual that signals your body and mind to wind down. Regular use of reishi has been linked to reduced cortisol levels—the hormone responsible for stress and better emotional balance overall.

Lion’s mane takes a different approach. Instead of acting directly on your mood, it works on your brain. It supports the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps repair and grow neurons. That may sound technical, but it basically means better brain function and emotional regulation. People who drink lion’s mane tea report clearer thinking, reduced brain fog, and less emotional reactivity.

Unlike prescription drugs that can numb your senses or have nasty side effects, mushroom tea supports your body’s own ability to cope. It won’t knock you out, but it can help take the edge off a rough day. Think of it like a calm breeze clearing away the mental clutter.

For best results, consistency is key. Sip a cup in the evening, combine it with deep breathing or journaling, and let it become part of your wind-down ritual. Over time, you may notice you’re more grounded, less frazzled, and a little more at peace.

3. Boosts Energy and Focus

Feeling sluggish? Struggling to focus? You’re not alone. Whether it’s too little sleep, too much stress, or an overloaded schedule, our energy and concentration often take a hit. That’s where mushroom tea steps in—not with a jolt like caffeine, but with a steady, nourishing kind of energy that supports both body and brain.

Cordyceps is the go-to mushroom for boosting stamina and endurance. Traditionally used by Tibetan herders and athletes, this fungus supports oxygen utilization and ATP production—the very fuel your cells need to keep going. When brewed into tea, cordyceps offers a noticeable lift in energy without the crash. It’s ideal for people who want to stay alert and productive without relying on coffee or energy drinks.

Lion’s mane also plays a big role here. While it won’t give you a caffeine buzz, it enhances focus by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF helps neurons grow and repair, improving communication between brain cells. The result? Sharper focus, better memory, and quicker mental processing. If you’re working on complex tasks, studying, or need help with mental clarity, lion’s mane tea can give your brain the extra support it needs.

One of the most appealing aspects of mushroom tea is that the energy boost is clean and calm. It doesn’t spike your nervous system or leave you jittery. Instead, it works in the background to improve cellular efficiency and mental function. Over time, many people notice a cumulative effect such as greater resilience to fatigue, improved productivity, and enhanced mental endurance.

Want to stay sharp during the day without feeling wired or exhausted later? Swap out your third cup of coffee for a mug of cordyceps or lion’s mane tea. Your brain and body will thank you.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

Every day, your body faces oxidative stress—damage caused by free radicals that can lead to chronic illness, premature aging, and cellular dysfunction. Antioxidants are your body’s defense system against this stress, and mushroom tea is full of them. In fact, some medicinal mushrooms are among the most antioxidant-rich substances found in nature.

Chaga is especially powerful in this area. Known as the “king of medicinal mushrooms,” chaga grows on birch trees and contains extremely high levels of polyphenols, melanin, and superoxide dismutase—compounds that neutralize harmful free radicals. Drinking chaga tea is like giving your body a protective shield, helping to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and protect skin from early aging.

Reishi also contains a variety of antioxidant compounds, including triterpenes and ganoderic acids. These help modulate immune response, reduce internal stress, and support detoxification. The antioxidants in reishi work at a deep level to cleanse the body and help it function more efficiently.

Lion’s mane and cordyceps bring their own unique antioxidant profiles, too. While not as potent as chaga in this category, they still contribute to cellular health and reduce oxidative load. Turkey tail, with its immune-focused compounds, adds another layer of support, especially for long-term wellness.

The antioxidant benefits of mushroom tea go beyond just fighting aging. They support liver function, improve skin clarity, and may even reduce the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes and neurodegenerative disease. Plus, the tea format allows your body to absorb these compounds more quickly and efficiently than if you were eating the mushrooms whole.

So if you’re looking for a natural way to reduce inflammation, detox gently, and support long-term health, antioxidant-rich mushroom tea is a simple and powerful addition to your wellness routine.

5. May Support Gut Health

Gut health is more than just digestion. It impacts your immune system, mood, and overall vitality. If your gut is out of balance, chances are your whole body feels it. That’s why mushroom tea, with its gut-friendly properties, is becoming a go-to for people seeking better digestive health and microbial harmony.

Turkey tail is one of the most researched mushrooms in the world, especially for its ability to support the gut microbiome. It’s rich in prebiotic fibers like polysaccharopeptides (PSP and PSK), which act as food for your beneficial gut bacteria. By nourishing these microbes, turkey tail helps them grow stronger, crowd out harmful bacteria, and create a more balanced internal ecosystem.

Reishi also supports gut health through its anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties. Chronic stress is a major disruptor of digestion. Reishi tea helps calm the nervous system, which in turn helps regulate gut function and reduce symptoms like bloating or cramping. Its compounds may also help restore the lining of the gut, which is critical for preventing leaky gut syndrome.

Lion’s mane has been found to improve the communication between the brain and gut. Since the gut is often referred to as the “second brain,” better neurological signaling between the two may support smoother digestion and improved nutrient absorption.

A strong gut equals a strong immune system, better mood, and higher energy. Drinking mushroom tea daily can act as a gentle yet effective way to feed your microbiome and support overall wellness from the inside out. For anyone dealing with digestive discomfort, frequent illness, or low energy, mushroom tea can be part of a gut-healing protocol that works holistically.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

While mushroom tea offers many health benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and risks. Most people can enjoy mushroom tea safely, but as with any supplement, there are a few things to consider before making it part of your daily routine.

Some people may experience mild digestive upset when first trying mushroom tea, especially if they consume large amounts. This can include symptoms like bloating, nausea, or loose stools. Starting with a small amount and gradually increasing your intake can help minimize any discomfort.

Allergic reactions are rare, but possible. If you’re allergic to mushrooms or have mold sensitivities, it’s best to proceed with caution. Look for high-quality, lab-tested products that are free from contaminants or other allergens.

Mushroom tea may also interact with medications, especially those that affect the immune system, blood pressure, or blood sugar. For example, reishi can lower blood pressure, which may be risky if you’re already on blood pressure medication. Cordyceps might affect how your body processes insulin or blood sugar. That’s why it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking prescription drugs.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid mushroom tea unless advised otherwise by a doctor. While mushrooms are generally safe, there isn’t enough research on their effects during pregnancy and lactation.

In general, moderation is key. Stick to recommended dosages, rotate different mushroom types to avoid overstimulation, and listen to your body. If you notice any negative symptoms, stop using the tea and consult a healthcare professional. Mushroom tea is a powerful tool for wellness, but like any remedy, it works best when used wisely.

Types of Mushrooms Commonly Used in Tea

Not all mushrooms are created equal. Each type offers different flavors, effects, and benefits. When it comes to mushroom tea, understanding the differences between the most popular varieties can help you choose the one that best suits your health goals.

1.Reishi

Reishi is often called the “mushroom of immortality” thanks to its long-standing reputation in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s one of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms, and for good reason. When brewed into tea, reishi offers a grounding, calming experience that can benefit both the mind and body.

The taste of reishi tea is bitter and earthy, with a deep, woodsy flavor. Some people find it intense, but pairing it with cinnamon or raw honey can help balance the bitterness. It’s best enjoyed in the evening due to its relaxing properties.

Reishi is a powerful adaptogen, meaning it helps the body manage stress more effectively. It can regulate cortisol levels, support adrenal function, and improve sleep quality. People dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or insomnia often find relief in a nightly cup of reishi tea.

Beyond stress relief, reishi also supports immune function. Its polysaccharides and triterpenes help modulate the immune system, making it stronger and more resilient without overactivation. Reishi may also have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer properties, though more research is still needed.

If you’re new to mushroom tea and want to start with a calming, restorative blend, reishi is an excellent choice. Just be patient—its effects build gradually over time, so consistency is key.

2. Chaga

Chaga is a wild mushroom that grows mainly on birch trees in cold climates. Unlike other mushrooms, it looks more like burnt charcoal than a typical cap-and-stem fungus. Despite its rugged appearance, chaga brews into a smooth, rich tea that many compare to coffee with a touch of vanilla.

The main appeal of chaga tea is its antioxidant power. It’s loaded with polyphenols and melanin, making it one of the most antioxidant-dense natural substances available. These antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, support healthy aging, and reduce chronic inflammation.

Chaga is also thought to help support immune health. It contains beta-glucans that stimulate the immune system, along with compounds that help balance it—making chaga useful whether your immune system is underperforming or overreacting.

While chaga doesn’t contain caffeine, many people report a noticeable energy lift after drinking it. It’s likely due to improved cellular function and reduced inflammation, which naturally increase your vitality.

The flavor is smooth, slightly sweet, and earthy. It pairs beautifully with warming spices like clove or cardamom, making it a favorite for cozy winter evenings or as a coffee alternative in the morning.

3. Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane is one of the most fascinating mushrooms in the functional food world, and it’s becoming a superstar for anyone interested in brain health. Named for its shaggy, white appearance, lion’s mane looks more like a pom-pom than a traditional mushroom, but don’t let its funny looks fool you, it’s powerful.

The flavor of lion’s mane tea is mild and slightly nutty. It’s easy to drink on its own or mix with other herbs like ginseng or peppermint for a refreshing twist. Its light flavor makes it one of the more approachable mushroom teas for beginners.

What sets lion’s mane apart is its unique ability to support cognitive function. It stimulates the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that plays a critical role in the growth, maintenance, and repair of nerve cells. This means lion’s mane can potentially improve memory, focus, and mental clarity, especially over long-term use.

Lion’s mane is also being studied for its potential to support people with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. While the research is still early, results are promising, especially in terms of neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement.

If you need a mental edge for work, study, or creative projects, a daily cup of lion’s mane tea might help unlock your full potential.

4. Cordyceps

Cordyceps has a reputation for being the energy mushroom, and it’s easy to see why. Traditionally used in Tibetan medicine, this mushroom grows in high altitudes and was once so rare it was reserved for royalty. Fortunately, modern cultivation methods have made it more accessible—and perfect for tea.

Cordyceps tea has a mildly earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness. It’s not overpowering, and when combined with herbs like maca or cacao, it becomes a delicious, energizing blend.

The main benefit of cordyceps is increased stamina and vitality. It helps your body produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of your cells. This means better endurance, improved oxygen uptake, and reduced fatigue during physical activity.

Athletes often use cordyceps as a natural performance enhancer, but you don’t have to be a gym rat to benefit. Even if you just want more energy to get through your workday or parent your kids without crashing, cordyceps tea can offer gentle, sustained support.

Cordyceps also has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. It may support heart health, balance blood sugar, and improve libido. It’s one of the best choices if you want an all-around vitality booster in your wellness toolkit.

5. Turkey Tail

Turkey tail gets its name from its colorful, fan-like appearance that resembles—you guessed it—a turkey’s tail. It’s one of the most extensively researched medicinal mushrooms, especially in cancer therapy and immune support.

The taste of turkey tail tea is fairly mild and woody. It blends well with other herbs and doesn’t have the bitterness that reishi or chaga can bring. That makes it a great base for tea blends focused on wellness and immune health.

Turkey tail is packed with beta-glucans and other polysaccharides that nourish your immune system. In fact, PSP and PSK—compounds found in turkey tail are used in some countries as part of adjunct cancer therapy due to their immune-enhancing properties.

This mushroom is especially good for gut health. Its prebiotic fibers support the growth of beneficial bacteria, helping to balance the gut microbiome. A healthy gut means better digestion, stronger immunity, and even improved mood.

If you’re looking for a daily mushroom tea that supports both immune and digestive health, turkey tail is a fantastic option to keep in your rotation.

How to Make Mushroom Tea at Home

Making mushroom tea at home is simpler than you might think. Whether you’re using whole dried mushrooms, powders, or extracts, all you need is a little time, hot water, and a few natural add-ins to make it taste great. Brewing your own allows you to customize the strength, flavor, and benefits depending on the mushroom or combination you choose.

Step-by-step guide using dried mushrooms:

1. Choose your mushroom – Reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, cordyceps, or turkey tail.
2. Measure your dose – About 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried mushroom pieces or 1 teaspoon of powder per cup of water.
3. Simmer gently – Place the mushrooms and water in a pot. Bring it to a low boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 to 60 minutes. For harder mushrooms like chaga or reishi, simmer closer to an hour.
4. Strain and enjoy – Remove the mushrooms with a strainer or cheesecloth and pour the tea into a mug.

5. Enhance the flavor – Add cinnamon, ginger, lemon, or a spoonful of honey for a more enjoyable experience.

Using mushroom powder or tea bags:

• Add 1 teaspoon of powder to hot water, stir well, and let sit for 5 minutes.
• For pre-packaged tea bags, steep for 5 to 10 minutes as directed.

Tips for best flavor and effect:

• Simmer with herbs like peppermint, clove, or turmeric for extra wellness benefits.
• Add natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Try coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy twist.

• Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning or as a wind-down drink in the evening depending on the mushroom used.

You can also refrigerate your tea and enjoy it cold over ice, especially with citrus for a refreshing summer drink. Some people even make a batch for the week and reheat as needed. It’s all about finding what works best for your lifestyle and health goals.

Where to Find Quality Mushroom Tea

If you're not up for making mushroom tea from scratch, or just want the convenience of a quick brew, you’ll find plenty of high-quality options online and in health stores. But with popularity comes variety, and not all mushroom teas are created equal. Here's how to find one that actually delivers the health benefits you’re looking for.

Sourcing tips:

• Go organic – Mushrooms absorb everything from the environment, so it's important to choose organically grown options free from pesticides or heavy metals.
• Third-party tested – Look for transparency in lab testing. Reputable brands will provide certificates of analysis showing purity and potency.
• Dual extraction – The most effective mushroom teas are made using both hot water and alcohol extraction. This ensures you’re getting all the beneficial compounds like beta-glucans and triterpenes.

• Whole fruiting body only – Avoid products made from just mycelium grown on grain. These are often cheaper and less potent. Look for “100 percent fruiting body” on the label.

Buying options:

• Loose dried mushrooms for home brewing
• Mushroom powders for quick tea preparation

• Ready-to-drink tea blends in sachets

Local herbal stores, farmer’s markets, and wellness co-ops may carry high-quality options. When buying online, always check reviews and ingredient transparency. A high-quality mushroom tea will usually cost a bit more, but the health benefits make it well worth it.

FAQ

Can you drink mushroom tea every day?

Yes, many people drink mushroom tea daily. The key is to listen to your body and rotate between different mushrooms if needed. Long-term use is generally safe when using high-quality products in moderation.

Does it taste like regular tea?

Not really. Mushroom tea has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor. Chaga is smoother and somewhat sweet, while reishi is more bitter. Adding honey, lemon, or cinnamon can make it more palatable.

How long does it take to feel effects?

Some benefits, like relaxation or increased focus, may be felt within an hour. Others, like immune support or cognitive improvement, take time. Most people report noticeable effects after consistent use for 1 to 2 weeks.

Can you mix mushroom types?

Absolutely. Many blends combine mushrooms to offer broader health benefits. For example, you can mix lion’s mane for focus with reishi for stress relief. Just be mindful of dosage and how your body reacts.

Can mushroom tea help with weight loss?

While mushroom tea is not a fat burner, it can support weight loss indirectly by improving energy, metabolism, and digestion. Cordyceps and lion’s mane may help boost physical performance and appetite control.

Is it okay to drink mushroom tea on an empty stomach?

Yes, most people tolerate it well on an empty stomach. However, if you feel nauseated, try taking it with a light snack.

4. Can I drink mushroom tea if I’m already taking supplements?
Generally, yes—but always check with a doctor or herbalist, especially if your supplements affect immunity, blood pressure, or hormones. Mushrooms can enhance or interfere with certain functions.

5. What’s the shelf life of dried mushrooms for tea?
Stored properly in a cool, dark place in airtight containers, dried mushrooms can last up to a year. Powders may have a slightly shorter shelf life, especially if exposed to air or moisture.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom tea is more than just a health trend, it’s a time-tested, research-backed way to nourish your body and mind. With its wide range of benefits—from immune support and stress relief to improved focus and gut health, it’s a simple ritual that can make a meaningful difference in your daily wellness.

Whether you’re sipping chaga in the morning for a gentle energy lift or winding down with reishi in the evening, there’s a mushroom tea for nearly every need. Just start slow, choose high-quality ingredients, and be consistent. Everyone’s body responds differently, so it may take some experimentation to find the right mushroom, dose, and routine that works for you.

And here’s a fun idea—keep a tea journal. Jot down how you feel after each cup, what blends you like best, and any improvements in your mood, energy, or sleep. It turns your tea habit into a mindful wellness practice.

So, why not give it a try? Brew up a cup, take a deep breath, and let nature do the rest.