Mushroom Tea

Mushroom tea is a potent herbal beverage prepared by infusing psychedelic mushrooms (like Psilocybe cubensis or magic mushroom), medicinal mushrooms (like reishi or lingzhi and shiitake), or turkey tail mushrooms in water. The biologically active components of mushroom tea along with their health-boosting properties lend themselves to a number of therapeutic uses. Another popular drink called the kombucha mushroom tea, made by fermenting a mixture of sugar and tea with bacteria and yeast, also offers several health benefits.

History and origin

Mushrooms have been used for medicinal as well as spiritual purposes since ancient times in different cultures. Thousands of years ago in China, the mushrooms were consumed for their curative properties. In ancient Greece and Rome, mushrooms were considered a common culinary ingredient. In 414 AD, a Korean doctor brought kombucha mushroom tea for the Japanese Emperor Inkyo to treat his digestive disorders. The psilocybin-containing mushroom varieties have been traditionally used by the Mesoamerican natives for divination and healing.

Mushroom tea benefits

Helps fight cancer

The herbal infusion has anti-cancer properties because of the presence of high amounts of beta-glucan polysaccharides and glycoprotein. Scientific studies have shown that taking different varieties of mushroom tea aids in shrinking cancerous tumors, lessening the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer patients, and stimulating the functions of the immune system.

Early results from clinical studies indicate that its regular consumption is also good for those with colorectal adenomas (noncancerous tumors of the rectum and the colon).

For heart health

In some research studies, it was found that taking this decoction on a regular basis helps to decrease high blood pressure and lower bad cholesterol levels. Thus, by controlling these contributing factors of heart diseases, it helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

It also assists in reducing the symptoms of arterial plaque (clogged arteries), including shortness of breath and chest pain. Prevention of plaque buildup on the arterial walls is important because it reduces the chances of a stroke or heart attack.

Good for diabetes

Animal studies have proved the enzyme-inhibitory effects of reishi extracts, which help in slowing down the production of glucose and maintain a steady blood sugar level. Thus, its intake is recommended for those with diabetes.

Anti-viral properties

It increases the levels of cytokines (hormone-like protein), improving the body’s defenses against viral infections like avian flu, swine flu, and influenza. Its daily consumption also reduces the spread of viruses in people with hepatitis B.

Relieves stress

The high adenosine content along with other active ingredients assists in preventing fatigue, as also reduces stress. It also relieves the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, including pain, dizziness, exhaustion, and sleep disturbances.

Asthma and bronchitis

According to scientific studies, reishi mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that provide relief from swollen airways making it beneficial for respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

How to make mushroom tea

• Crush some mushrooms and take them in a glass or steel pot
• For every 5 grams of mushroom use a cup of water and heat it until it starts boiling
• Pour hot water into the vessel
• Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes
• Strain it into a tea cup
• Some honey/sugar and ginger can be added to make it more flavorful

Safety and precaution

Side effects

In general, it is safe for consumption but its excessive and prolonged use could cause mouth and throat dryness, stomach upset, itchiness, rashes, and trigger allergies. Those with blood clotting disorder should have it cautiously as overconsumption might increase the chances of bleeding.

During pregnancy

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid having this tea since there is a lack of scientific data that could support its use during these times.

Where to buy

You can purchase not just the powdered form but also organic extracts of mushroom from online as well as local tea stores. Another healthy blend of chaga and mushroom packed in bleach-free tea bags is sold online.