Emily Johnson
Mushroom tea is a popular beverage, particularly in Russia and Baltic countries, where it is used to treat various ailments. Brewing mushroom tea is a simple process that can be done at home with a kettle and mug or a pot. The first step is to decide which mushrooms to use, with popular options including Lion's Mane, Chaga, and Reishi. The mushrooms should then be ground into a fine powder and added to a disposable tea bag or reusable tea strainer. One cup of hot water should be poured, and the tea should be allowed to steep for 5-10 minutes. To optimize the flavour and health benefits, it is recommended to let the tea soak for a few hours. It is important to note that mushroom tea should be consumed in moderation as excessive amounts may cause digestive discomfort or allergic reactions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushroom types | Chaga, Lion's Mane, Maitake, Reishi, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail |
| Mushroom forms | Fresh, dried chunks, powder, tea bags |
| Water type | Filtered water |
| Water temperature | Boiling |
| Brewing time | 5-10 minutes |
| Brewing quantity | Enough for 3-5 days |
| Add-ins | Honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, ginger, lemon, orange peel, rosemary, thyme |
| Consumption | Sip slowly, on an empty stomach |
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What You'll Learn
Use fresh mushrooms, dried chunks, powder or tea bags
Mushroom tea can be made using fresh mushrooms, dried chunks, powder, or tea bags. The process varies slightly depending on the form of the mushroom. Here are the steps for each method:
Fresh Mushrooms
When using fresh mushrooms, it is important to properly identify the mushrooms to ensure they are safe for consumption. Consulting an expert mycologist is recommended when foraging wild mushrooms. The mushrooms can then be sliced or chopped and added to a pot of hot water. The amount of mushroom added can be adjusted to personal preference, keeping in mind that a stronger taste is likely to result in more pronounced effects. The mixture should be brought to a boil and allowed to simmer for a few minutes. For maximum flavour and benefits, it is recommended to let the mixture soak for a few hours.
Dried Chunks
Using dried mushroom chunks involves a similar process to fresh mushrooms. The dried chunks should be cut into small pieces and added to a pot of hot water. The mixture should then be brought to a boil and allowed to simmer for a few minutes. As with fresh mushrooms, letting the mixture soak for a few hours will enhance the flavour and health benefits.
Powder
When using mushroom powder, the first step is to heat the water. This can be done using an electric kettle or a stovetop with a pot. The amount of water can vary depending on the desired quantity of tea, but a ratio of one teaspoon of powder per 6oz of water is generally recommended. Once the water is heated, the powder can be added directly to the water and stirred to combine. The mixture should then be allowed to steep for 5-10 minutes. For a stronger brew, the powder can be added to a disposable tea bag or reusable tea strainer before being steeped in hot water.
Tea Bags
Using pre-made mushroom tea bags is the most convenient method. Simply add the tea bag to a cup and pour in boiled water. Allow the tea to brew for a few minutes, depending on the desired strength. Tea bags typically provide a milder flavour and may have slightly reduced health benefits compared to other forms of mushrooms.
Regardless of the method used, it is important to note that mushroom tea should be consumed in moderation. While generally safe, excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before adding new substances to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
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Brew for 5-10 minutes
Brewing mushroom tea for 5-10 minutes is a crucial step in the process of preparing this beverage and can significantly impact the taste and potency of the final product. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for this step:
When the water has reached the desired temperature, it's time to introduce the mushrooms. If you're using a teapot, place the desired amount of dried or fresh mushrooms into the infuser or directly into the pot if you're using a strainer later. If you're brewing a single cup, simply add the mushrooms to your mug.
For the best results, ensure that the mushrooms are completely submerged in the water. Use a spoon to gently press or stir the mushrooms, helping them absorb water and release their flavours and nutrients. This step is especially important when dealing with denser mushrooms or those with tough textures.
The brewing time can vary depending on your preference and the type of mushroom you're using. For a milder tea, aim for the shorter end of the range, around 5 minutes. This will result in a more subtle flavour and potentially reduce the likelihood of an intense "body load" feeling. If you prefer a stronger tea, extend the brewing time to up to 10 minutes. This will extract more of the active compounds and enhance the flavour.
During the brewing process, feel free to cover the teapot or mug to retain heat and prevent the tea from cooling down too quickly. This is especially useful if you're aiming for a longer brewing time or if your environment is particularly cold. However, be cautious not to over-brew, as this can lead to a bitter taste and an unpleasant texture.
Once the brewing time is complete, remove the mushrooms or strain the tea to separate the liquid from the solids. You can do this by using a strainer or simply removing the infuser from your teapot or mug. If you prefer a clearer tea, you may want to strain the tea twice to remove any remaining sediment or floating particles.
Finally, you can add sweetener or lemon juice according to your taste preferences. Keep in mind that some people believe that certain sweeteners may interact with the compounds in the mushrooms. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best-tasting and most beneficial mushroom tea.
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Enhance with cinnamon, honey, ginger, lemon or herbs
Enhancing mushroom tea with cinnamon, honey, ginger, lemon, or herbs can be done for both flavour and therapeutic effects. The earthy flavour of mushroom tea can be enhanced by adding cinnamon for a spicy kick or honey for sweetness. Honey can also help to make a bitter tea more palatable. Lemon can be added as lemon juice or as a slice of lemon as a garnish. Lemon tekking is a method that involves adding citric acid to the mix, intensifying the experience by making it more instant and causing it to subside quicker. Ginger can be added as slices or grated if fresh.
Herbs can also be added to mushroom tea for flavour and therapeutic effects. Fresh or dried herbs can be added, such as rosemary, thyme, marjoram, peppermint, basil, or oregano. Dried flowers such as jasmine and chamomile can also be added.
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Drink within 3-5 days
When brewing mushroom tea, it is generally recommended that you drink it within 3-5 days to minimize any potential negative effects and to ensure optimal potency and flavour. Here are some detailed instructions to help you brew your mushroom tea and store it effectively within this timeframe:
Brewing and Storing Instructions:
Day 1:
- Clean and prepare your mushrooms by removing any dirt or debris. You can use a soft brush or a damp paper towel to gently wipe the mushrooms clean.
- For the best results, use filtered or spring water instead of tap water. Heat the water to the desired temperature. An ideal temperature range for mushroom tea is between 160-180°F (71-82°C).
- Use approximately 1 gram of mushrooms per 8 ounces (237 ml) of water. This ratio ensures a potent and flavourful tea.
- Place the mushrooms in a teapot, French press, or a mason jar. Pour the heated water over the mushrooms and allow them to steep.
- Steeping times can vary depending on your preference and the type of mushrooms used. A good starting point is to steep the tea for 10-15 minutes. Longer steeping times may increase the potency but be mindful to not oversteep to avoid bitterness.
- After steeping, strain the tea to remove the mushroom pieces. You can use a fine-mesh strainer, a coffee filter, or a tea infuser.
- Let the tea cool down to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container, like a glass bottle or jar. You can also use a sealed pitcher or a jug.
Days 2-5:
- Store the tea in the refrigerator. Keeping it chilled helps preserve its freshness and potency.
- It is best to consume the tea within this timeframe to ensure optimal effects and to minimize any potential negative changes in flavour or potency.
- You can reheat the tea before drinking if you prefer it warm. Always use a suitable container and avoid heating it in a plastic bottle.
- Always inspect the tea before consuming. If there are any signs of mould or an unpleasant odour, discard the tea immediately.
By following these instructions, you can safely brew and store your mushroom tea, ensuring a pleasant and beneficial experience while minimizing any potential negative effects associated with prolonged storage or improper preparation.
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Consult a doctor if on medication
Mushroom tea is generally safe, but excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues or allergic reactions. It is important to consume it in moderation and monitor how your body responds. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications, it is highly recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating mushroom tea into your diet.
Magic mushrooms, in particular, can be dangerous when mixed with other drugs, including over-the-counter or prescription medications, as the effects can be unpredictable. People taking psychiatric medications should avoid consuming magic mushrooms, as it may cause a relapse or worsen their condition.
Reishi mushrooms, for example, may have adverse effects if you are taking certain medications. Reishi mushrooms may lower blood pressure, slow blood clotting, and decrease blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult a doctor if you are taking medications for high or low blood pressure, diabetes, or blood clotting issues.
Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advisable to refrain from consuming reishi mushrooms due to insufficient research on their safety during these periods.
The same principle applies to other types of mushrooms used for tea. It is always best to consult a doctor if you are on medication to ensure that mushroom tea will not negatively interact with your current treatment plan.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms are high in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. They also aid in the rejuvenation of your inner wellness, boosting energy, improving sleep, and supporting gut health.
There are over 100 types of mushrooms used in Chinese traditional medicine. Popular mushrooms for tea include Lion's Mane, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps, and Reishi.
You can use fresh mushrooms, dried mushroom pieces, powdered extracts, or tea bags. If using fresh mushrooms, cut them into small chunks and add them to a pot with hot water. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes. If using a tea bag, simply add it to a cup, pour in boiling water, and let it brew for a few minutes.
Brew only enough tea that you expect to consume within 3-5 days. Any tea remaining after 5 days should be discarded.
