Remeday | The Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms

What is Mushroom Matcha? The Complete Benefits & Buyer's Guide

Written by Remeday | 23 Feb 2024

If you're here, you've likely heard whispers through the mushroom patch about a beverage that's causing quite the stir – mushroom matcha!

Mushroom coffee has taken the supplement industry by storm and now tea lovers can rejoice!

But mushroom matcha isn't just your average cup of tea; it's a concoction crafted from the depths of ancient wisdom and traditional mushroom medicine. 

So, why should you care about mushroom matcha?

From boosting your immune system to sharpening your focus, each mushroom brings its own unique set of skills to the table. We're talking about cordyceps, lion's mane, reishi, shiitake, turkey tail, and king trumpet mushrooms, all teaming up in one cup to give your health a fungi-filled boost.

Whether you're a seasoned mycophile or just dipping your toes into the mushroom kingdom, join us as we unravel the mysteries and marvels of mushroom matcha.

What is mushroom matcha?

So, what exactly is this fungi-infused beverage that's got everyone buzzing? Mushroom matcha is a cousin to mushroom coffee, blending the centuries-old tradition of matcha tea with the powerhouse properties of medicinal mushrooms. 

Now, let's break it down a bit further:

Picture your favorite cup of matcha – that vibrant green elixir packed with antioxidants and a gentle caffeine kick. But wait, there's more! In comes the fungi brigade, including cordyceps, lion's mane, reishi, shiitake, turkey tail, and king trumpet mushrooms, ready to party in your teacup.

It's a matcha made in mushroom heaven! (Sorry.)

But why mushrooms, you ask?

Well, these aren't your average shrooms you'd find sautéed on your pizza. Nope, these functional mushrooms have a reputation – they're like the superheroes of the fungi world, each with its own special powers.

Cordyceps might give your energy levels a boost, lion's mane could sharpen your focus, and reishi might help you chill out like a zen master.

But don't worry, mushroom matcha won't transport you to a psychedelic wonderland. Medicinal mushrooms aren't psychoactive. Instead, mushroom matcha offers a sip of wellness, blending tradition with innovation in a cup of pure magic. 

Use Code "REMEDAY" for 15% off your first order of RYZE Mushroom Matcha on us!!

What mushrooms are in mushroom matcha?

You might be familiar with matcha already. But what are the potential benefits of combining matcha with medicinal mushrooms? Each mushroom brings its own unique flair to the blend. 

Let's meet the fungi, shall we?

1. Cordyceps mushrooms

Cordyceps, the athlete of the mushroom world, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential to boost energy and endurance. It's like a natural energy shot straight from the forest floor. Cordyceps may support athletic performance, improve respiratory function, and enhance overall vitality.

2. Lion's mane mushrooms

With its shaggy appearance reminiscent of a lion's mane (hence the name), this mushroom is all about boosting brainpower. Think of it as nature's own brain booster, helping you stay sharp and focused. Lion's Mane may support cognitive function, memory retention, and nerve health.

3. Reishi mushrooms

Reishi, the chill master of the mushroom kingdom, is revered for its calming and adaptogenic properties. It's like a soothing hug in a cup, helping you unwind and de-stress. Reishi may support relaxation, immune function, and overall well-being.

4.  Shiitake mushrooms

Don't let its whimsical name fool you – shiitake means business when it comes to boosting your immune system. It's like a shield, protecting you from the onslaught of germs and toxins. Shiitake may support cardiovascular health, immune function, and skin health.

E. Turkey tail mushrooms

With its hearty texture and meaty flavor, turkey tail adds a robust depth to mushroom matcha. It's like the king of mushrooms, reigning supreme in your teacup. Turkey Tail may support immune function, gut health, and overall vitality.

F. King trumpet mushrooms

The culinary darling of the mushroom world, king trumpet brings its rich, umami flavor to the mix. It's like adding a sprinkle of savory goodness to your mushroom matcha. King Trumpet may support cardiovascular health, immune function, and digestive health.

What are the benefits of mushroom matcha?

Now that we've met our mushroom crew, let's delve into the potential health benefits of sipping on mushroom matcha. 

So, what exactly can mushroom matcha do for you?

Let's take a look at some of the health benefits. 

Mushroom matcha for immune system support

Mushrooms like reishi and turkey tail are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They act like the guardians of your immune system, helping to fend off pesky invaders and keep you feeling your best, even during cold and flu season.

Reishi contains compounds called beta-glucans, which have been shown to enhance immune function by activating certain immune cells like natural killer cells and macrophages.

Many mushrooms are high in beta-glucans.

Turkey tail, on the other hand, is rich in polysaccharopeptides, which have been studied for their potential to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses.

Together, these mushrooms act like the guardians of your immune system, helping to fend off pesky invaders and keep you feeling your best, even during cold and flu season.

Mushroom matcha for cognitive function

Need a little brain boost? Look no further than lion's mane. This magical mushroom contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have been shown to stimulate the growth of brain cells and enhance cognitive function.

Several studies have suggested that lion's mane may help improve memory retention, concentration, and overall cognitive function, making it the perfect companion for those demanding work or study sessions.

Mushroom matcha for stress management

Feeling stressed? Reishi has your back. As an adaptogen, reishi helps your body adapt to stressors, promoting a sense of calm and balance. It contains compounds like triterpenes and polysaccharides, which have been shown to modulate the body's stress response and promote relaxation.

By supporting your body's ability to cope with stress, reishi can help reduce feelings of anxiety and improve overall well-being.

It's like a zen retreat in a teacup, helping you find your center amidst life's chaos.

Mushroom matcha for antioxidant effects

Thanks to their high antioxidant content, mushrooms like cordyceps and shiitake help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Think of them as your own personal army of free radical-fighting superheroes, ready to defend your cells from damage. 

Cordyceps contains a unique compound called cordycepin, which has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Shiitake mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants like L-ergothioneine and selenium, which have been studied for their ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.

By incorporating these antioxidant-rich mushrooms into your diet, you can help protect your cells from damage and support overall health and longevity.

Mushroom matcha for digestive health

King trumpet mushrooms are not only delicious but also great for your gut. Packed with fiber and prebiotics, they help promote digestive health and keep your gut microbiome happy and thriving.

Fiber acts like a broom, sweeping waste and toxins out of your digestive system and promoting regularity. Prebiotics, on the other hand, act as food for beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping to nourish and support a healthy microbiome.

By including king trumpet mushrooms in your diet, you can help improve digestion, boost nutrient absorption, and support overall gut health.

Mushroom matcha for energy and endurance

Cordyceps isn't just for athletes – it's for anyone looking to boost their energy levels and enhance their endurance. Whether you're hitting the gym or just trying to power through a busy day, cordyceps has got you covered.

Cordyceps contains compounds like adenosine, which have been shown to improve oxygen utilization in the body and increase ATP production, the primary source of energy for cells.

How to make mushroom matcha

Now that you're familiar with the potential health benefits of mushroom matcha, you might be wondering how to incorporate this fungi-fueled elixir into your daily routine.

Simply combine your favorite matcha tea with mushroom extract as powder or tincture and you have yourself simple, effective, and economical mushroom matcha. 

Fear not, my fungi-loving friend, for we've got you covered with some tips and tricks for making mushroom matcha a delicious and convenient part of your diet.

Mushroom matcha brewing recipe

There are several ways to prepare mushroom matcha, depending on your taste preferences and lifestyle.

The most common method involves whisking powdered mushroom matcha into hot water until frothy, similar to traditional matcha preparation. However, you can also get creative and incorporate mushroom matcha into smoothies, lattes, baked goods, and even savory dishes like soups and sauces.

The possibilities are endless!

For a simple and satisfying mushroom matcha latte, try whisking powdered mushroom matcha with hot milk (or your favorite non-dairy milk) and a touch of sweetener, like honey or maple syrup.

You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create your own signature mushroom matcha masterpiece.

Mushroom dosage for matcha

When it comes to consuming mushroom matcha, moderation is key. While mushrooms are generally considered safe for consumption, it's important to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.

Start with a small serving of mushrooms, especially if you aren't used to taking mushroom supplements.

A daily recommended dose of mushroom extract can vary between 500 - 3,000mg per day, depending on the extraction method, quality, and your personal tolerance. 

If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating mushroom matcha into your diet.

Is mushroom matcha safe?

While mushroom matcha offers a wide range of potential health benefits, it's important to be mindful of quality and sourcing.

Look for reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients and have undergone rigorous testing for purity and potency. Additionally, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to mushrooms or other ingredients in mushroom matcha, be sure to read labels carefully and choose products that are free from any potential allergens.

It's also worth noting that some people may experience digestive discomfort or other mild side effects when first introducing mushroom matcha into their diet.

This is often temporary and typically resolves on its own as your body adjusts to the new addition.

However, if you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it's best to discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

What to look for in a commercial mushroom matcha product?

Not all commercial matcha + mushroom products are created equal. We recently had the opportunity to try mushroom matcha from our friends over at RYZE. 

When it comes to quality and purity, you won't find better commercial mushroom matcha than RYZE. We absolutely love this delicious and powerful mix of matcha and mushrooms. See for yourself!

Use code REMEDAY for 15% off your first order at checkout!

When selecting a commercial mushroom matcha product, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you're getting a high-quality and effective product. Here are some key things to look for:

Ingredients

Check the ingredient list to ensure it includes high-quality matcha powder and a variety of medicinal mushrooms, such as cordyceps, lion's mane, reishi, shiitake, turkey tail, or king trumpet. Look for products that use organic and sustainably sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Quality and purity

Choose brands that prioritize quality and purity. Look for products that have undergone third-party testing for potency, purity, and contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants. This ensures you're getting a safe and effective product.

Mushroom dosage

Consider the dosage of mushrooms per serving. Some products may contain higher or lower concentrations of mushrooms, so it's important to choose a product that aligns with your personal preferences and needs. 

Mushroom extraction formulation

Pay attention to the formulation of the product. Some mushroom matcha products may contain additional ingredients such as sweeteners, flavorings, or additives. Choose products with minimal additional ingredients and avoid products with artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Additionally, you should look for products that use 100% mushroom fruiting bodies, not mycelium. 

Certifications

Look for products that have certifications from reputable organizations such as the USDA Organic certification, which ensures that the product meets strict organic standards. Other certifications to look for include non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan certifications.

Brand reputation

Research the brand's reputation and track record. Choose brands that are transparent about their sourcing and production processes and have positive reviews from customers. Look for brands with a commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and transparency.

Price

Consider the price of the product in relation to its quality and value. While higher-priced products may indicate higher quality, it's important to compare prices and consider factors such as dosage, formulation, and certifications when making your decision.