Posted by Martha Bolt
on June 02, 2026
Functional mushrooms are everywhere and I mean everywhere, so it’s no surprise that people are starting to become curious about what these mushrooms are actually doing. Even M&S have started selling a range of Lion’s Mane coffee, promoting its supposed cognitive function improving properties in the form of a cold brew, standing proud in the food hall. Here is the thing, functional mushrooms have been used for absolutely yonks, but thanks to the powers of the internet, the healing properties that people have been experiencing are coming towards the light. There is a reason why they are still being used years on.
If you are sceptical about functional mushrooms - you are not alone! When talked about, often people associate mushrooms as a form of psychedelic or ‘shrooms’, a twisting high of talking trees. But do not fear, functional mushrooms won’t make you spin around after one sip of coffee, the idea behind taking these mushrooms is, put simply, healing without the high.
So, are you still tempted? Here are four of the best functional mushroom coffees and their benefits so you can pair your needs to your perfect cup.
Lions Mane: Mentally ready for the day
Made from the fruiting body of the mushroom, Lions Mane coffee can be great for helping with improving your cognitive function, mental health and mood. The active constitutes (basically the bit that can cause therapeutic effects!) are Erinacines and Nericenones which are both natural antibacterial and support nerve growth. Lions Mane can also help with nerve pain, brain fog and neuropathy.
Chaga: Immune system support with every sip
Chaga mushroom is an incredibly hard mushroom often described as being like a rock. Therefore, it cannot be eaten raw. Its main constituents are Betulinic acid derivatives and Melano-glucan complexes which come from the birch tree it grows on. Chaga can help with digestive issues and digestive cleansing due to its potential anti-microbial properties and has been seen to help skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Reishi: Mind, body and soul
Often found growing at the bottom of decaying hard wood tree’s, Reishi mushrooms can be great for anxiety, inflammation and immunity. They have been shown to provide anti-viral effects and can also help with liver function and possibly provide cardiovascular and respiratory help. Thanks to its Immune-Modulating Polysaccharides, Reishi mushroom can help stimulate, balance, and regulate the immune system, improving the body's natural defence against infections.
Grab your cup!
All of these mushrooms are available in our premium mushroom coffee line. Can’t decide? No worries! Lucky for you we also have a complex mushroom coffee blend which includes all the above And Maitake and Cordyceps.
