For many years, we’ve turned to caffeinated drinks to awaken our brains and sharpen our concentration. We’ve been blessed with a wide array of coffee beverages offering different mixtures and flavours that keep us alert and focused. Yet one issue persists: the inevitable crash that follows, leaving you feeling sluggish.
Many have been advised to reduce their caffeine consumption to avoid this unwanted slump, while others recommend having your last cup before noon. While these approaches work for some, they don’t suit everyone. That’s where mushroom coffee Ötzibrew steps in as a long-awaited alternative, and in the UK, it has emerged as the premium choice for those seeking a healthier coffee experience.
In this guide, we explore the history of medicinal mushrooms, the science of sustained energy, and provide brewing techniques for the perfect cup. Whether you’re looking to support your gut health, sharpen your focus, or simply enjoy a robust, low-caffeine brew, this is your comprehensive resource.
Mushroom coffee is a brew designed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee beverages. It’s a carefully crafted fusion of chicory root or regular coffee with extracts from medicinal mushrooms. People craft this beverage by drying medicinal mushrooms, extracting the beneficial compounds, and blending them with roasted chicory root or coffee beans. The most popular types used are Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane.
The name has left some people quite baffled, with some worrying their cups would have large chunks of mushrooms floating about. Thankfully, that’s not the case; the final brew is smooth and coffee-like.
To understand why Ötzibrew mushroom coffee has become a staple for modern food enthusiasts, we must examine its two primary components: roasted chicory root and functional mushrooms.
Chicory is a root vegetable that, when roasted, undergoes a remarkable transformation. It’s naturally occurring inulin (a prebiotic fibre) caramelises during roasting, creating a dark, rich liquid with notes of toasted nuts and burnt sugar. The chicory provides a smooth mouthfeel and acts as a powerful prebiotic, feeding your beneficial gut bacteria.
However, because chicory is high in inulin, a FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharide), those following a strict Low-FODMAP protocol for IBS should introduce mushroom coffee Ötzibrew gradually. The inulin supports the growth of beneficial Bifidobacteria, may improve mineral absorption (particularly calcium and magnesium), supports regular bowel movements, and creates short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining.
Some people experience initial bloating or gas, which typically resolves within 1-2 weeks as gut bacteria adapt. Start with smaller servings and gradually increase, ensuring adequate hydration when consuming high-fibre foods.
If chicory provides the body, the mushrooms provide the functional benefits. Ötzibrew uses dual-extraction methods to ensure the bioactive compounds beta-glucans and triterpenes are actually available to your body.
Chaga (The “King of Mushrooms”): Sourced from birch tree bark in cold climates, Chaga is one of the most antioxidant-dense natural substances available. It adds a woody, slightly vanilla-like undertone to the brew. The birch tree connection is crucial. Chaga concentrates betulin from the bark, converting it into betulinic acid.
Lion’s Mane: In its dried form, it offers a neutral, grounding base that supports cognitive function without jarring energy spikes.
The reason mushroom coffee Ötzibrew succeeds where other alternatives fail is the umami factor. Mushrooms provide a savoury depth that triggers the same satisfaction centres in the brain as a dark roast.
Many of today’s trends that are hailed as modern discoveries are steeped in history, and mushroom coffee is no exception. This alternative’s popularity may have surged through the last decade, yet it’s been used for centuries in China, where it was considered medicine and went by “lingzhi,” commonly prepared as teas and powders.
The Chinese were the first to recognise the beneficial properties of medicinal mushrooms. They used mushroom preparations to boost energy and reduce stress, and believed these fungi possessed age-supporting properties, which may explain why traditional Chinese medicine has maintained such longevity in global wellness practices.
Another historical significance of mushroom coffee was its role as a vital alternative during World War II. It’s widely documented that Finland resorted to coffee substitutes in the 1940s when essential goods went scarce due to wartime rationing. Finnish people made use of their native Chaga mushroom to compensate for the short supply of coffee during the war.
In Britain, chicory root became a familiar addition to coffee during both World Wars. The practice of blending chicory with coffee actually predates the wars; it was common in Victorian England and later spread to New Orleans, where French settlers created a distinctive chicory coffee culture that persists today.
The connection between wartime necessity and culinary innovation is fascinating. What began as a way to stretch limited resources revealed unexpected benefits: chicory provided body and sweetness without caffeine, and when combined with adaptogenic mushrooms, created a genuinely functional beverage rather than just a poor substitute.
Chaga has been harvested from birch forests in Siberia, Northern Scandinavia, and parts of North America for thousands of years. In Russia, Chaga tea (known as “chaga chai”) has been consumed since at least the 12th century, with written records describing its use in folk medicine.
The traditional preparation method involved slowly simmering chunks of Chaga in water for hours, creating a dark, coffee-like brew. This slow extraction was crucial—it allowed both water-soluble compounds (like polysaccharides) and the tougher, heat-resistant triterpenes to be released into the liquid.
Indigenous peoples of northern regions understood intuitively what modern science has confirmed: Chaga from birch trees contains concentrated nutrients the tree produces to defend itself against harsh climates.
Proper brewing technique dramatically affects the final flavour, extraction, and functional benefits. Here’s how to prepare it correctly.
Use water at 85-90°C (not boiling, as this can scorch delicate mushroom compounds). Use 1-2 teaspoons per 250ml water, and brew for 4-7 minutes. Shorter times produce lighter flavours, while longer steeping extracts more depth and functional compounds.
This method produces the most consistent results and allows full expression of flavours.
Chef’s Tip: For the “bloom” effect, add just enough water to cover the grounds, wait 30 seconds, then add the remaining water for improved extraction.
For pure Chaga or maximum functional benefits, simmer 1-2 tablespoons in 1 litre of cold water for 20-30 minutes at a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). The liquid should turn deep amber to dark brown. This traditional method extracts different compounds than quick steeping, particularly the harder-to-access triterpenes. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Brew 180ml Ötzibrew at double strength and heat 120ml milk of choice to 60-65°C. Froth the milk using a frother or whisk. Pour hot Ötzibrew into your cup, add optional sweetener (1 tsp honey or maple syrup), and gently pour frothed milk over the back of a spoon to create layers.
Best Milk Pairings:
Pure Chaga has a surprisingly mild, slightly sweet flavour with subtle vanilla and woody notes, similar to a light black tea. The Chicory & Cordyceps Dark Roast is rich and roasted, with chocolate and hazelnut notes from the caramelised chicory; it’s the closest approximation to traditional coffee. The Dandelion and Burdock Root Medium Roast is lighter and more tea-like, with gentle roasted grain and natural sweetness.
For those transitioning from regular coffee, Ötzibrew offers the ritual of a hot, aromatic beverage with rich colour and satisfying mouthfeel, but without the acidic bite or coffee-specific bitterness.
There are many good reasons mushroom coffee is back in the spotlight. The Chinese used it as medicine in ancient times, and it possesses properties that can support overall well-being. Not only does it minimise the side effects that come with too much caffeine, but it also offers substantial health benefits that you can access from a daily cup.
A cup of mushroom coffee contains almost half the caffeine found in regular coffee, an excellent way to reduce daily caffeine intake without giving up your morning ritual. One of the key benefits that comes from this reduction is less anxiety throughout your day, which contributes significantly to better sleep at night.
Research shows that high caffeine consumption (more than 400mg daily) can disrupt circadian rhythms and reduce sleep quality. Ötzibrew mushroom coffee contains approximately 40-50mg of caffeine per serving compared to 95mg in regular coffee, allowing you to enjoy a comforting beverage without the sleep interference. Additionally, Reishi mushroom (sometimes included in blends) contains compounds that may support GABA activity in the brain, promoting relaxation without sedation.
Mushrooms contain beneficial compounds like beta-glucans along with vitamins and minerals, which are all vital for supporting steady blood sugar levels. Maintaining stable blood sugar provides sustained energy instead of the crash associated with the rapid spike and drop of glucose levels in your blood.
Unlike coffee, which provides a quick caffeine spike followed by an energy crash, Ötzibrew’s combination of lower caffeine and adaptogenic mushrooms creates what some describe as “alert calm” focused energy without jitters. The B vitamins naturally present in medicinal mushrooms support cellular energy production, while the fibre from chicory slows the absorption of any sugars you add, preventing the blood sugar rollercoaster. Starting your day with a cup of mushroom coffee can support staying productive and focused all day long.
Mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation throughout your body and support comfortable joints and muscles. This is especially true of Chaga mushrooms, a medicinal mushroom known in traditional medicine for supporting the body’s natural response to discomfort.
Chaga contains triterpenes, particularly betulinic acid, which has been studied for anti-inflammatory properties. Beta-glucans also modulate immune response, which is connected to inflammation management. While Ötzibrew isn’t a treatment for inflammatory conditions, regular consumption as part of an anti-inflammatory diet may support overall wellness.
One of the key advantages of regularly drinking mushroom coffee is access to immune-supporting compounds. Mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are compounds that support immunity and help your body manage oxidative stress.
Key immune compounds include beta-glucans (polysaccharides that prime immune cells without overstimulating them), polyphenols (antioxidants that protect cells from damage), and ergothioneine (a unique antioxidant concentrated in mushrooms that cells actively transport and retain).
Important Note: Ötzibrew supports general wellness and immune function but should never replace medical treatment or be considered a cure for any condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before using functional foods to address specific health concerns.
For centuries, the Chinese have called certain mushrooms “adaptogens” for their ability to support the body’s response to various stressors. These fungi may help with managing stress by supporting balanced cortisol levels, your body’s primary stress hormone.
Unlike stimulants (which increase energy but can worsen stress) or sedatives (which suppress the nervous system), adaptogens are believed to help the body achieve a balance of homeostasis. They support your stress response system without forcing it in any particular direction.
In practical terms, mushroom coffee works differently from regular coffee. Rather than creating jittery, anxious energy, the combination of modest caffeine with adaptogenic compounds may help you feel alert yet calm throughout the day. Many people report that switching from regular coffee to mushroom coffee reduced their afternoon anxiety and improved their ability to handle stressful situations.
Supporting your cognitive abilities contributes to protecting your brain function over time. Not only will you have your focus, concentration, and memory functioning optimally, but you may also be supporting long-term brain health.
Lion’s Mane specifically has been studied extensively for compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which appear to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is crucial for the maintenance and growth of neurons, your brain cells. Practical benefits include improved focus and concentration during work, better word recall and memory formation, support for long-term cognitive health, and clearer thinking without the “brain fog” of caffeine crashes.
A daily cup of mushroom coffee may support keeping your mind sharp and your brain healthy, though it should complement, not replace, other brain-healthy habits like adequate sleep, exercise, and a nutritious diet.
This coffee alternative has been generating significant interest on social media. Several brands have emerged to offer this beverage, guiding people towards better and healthier choices. Among the brands that have made a strong appearance in the market, Ötzibrew has established itself as a leader in the UK and Europe.
Ötzibrew was founded in November 2017 as a certified organic coffee alternative brand by Tricia McNeilly, a food entrepreneur with a vision for better-for-you beverages. We had the opportunity to meet with the brilliant mind behind this successful brand for an insightful interview, discussing everything about this organic company.
McNeilly shared the fascinating journey of how Ötzibrew came into being, revealing a story of passion, research, and commitment to quality. The brand emerged from personal need. McNeilly herself was looking for a coffee alternative that didn’t compromise on taste or quality whilst delivering genuine functional benefits.
The name “Ötzibrew” pays homage to Ötzi the Iceman, the 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in the Alps, who was found carrying birch polypore mushrooms, evidence that our ancestors understood the value of functional fungi thousands of years ago.
Ötzibrew operates under the motto “like coffee, but better.” The brand offers a range of mushroom coffee products using extracts from dried medicinal mushrooms, each offering specific benefits tailored to different needs. Products are available on their website, otzibrew.com.
Lion’s Mane is one of the most prominent medicinal mushrooms, used for centuries in traditional medicine. Its name comes from its relatively large size and bushy appearance that resembles a lion’s mane.
This pure extract powder contains no fillers or additives and is dual-extracted for maximum bioavailability. You may notice this product carries a higher price point compared to others, reflecting the quality and concentration of the extract. As discussed in the health benefits section, Lion’s Mane supports cognitive function, mental clarity, and memory.
How to use: Add ½ to 1 teaspoon to hot water, coffee, tea, or smoothies. For best results, use consistently as part of your daily routine. The powder has a mild, slightly sweet flavour that blends easily.
This product is ideal for coffee enthusiasts trying to limit their caffeine intake. The dark roast creates the intense aroma of regular coffee without the subsequent crash. It’s also gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, catering to various dietary requirements.
The flavour profile is rich, bold, and satisfying with notes of dark chocolate and toasted nuts. The Cordyceps mushroom adds subtle umami depth without any mushroom flavour, whilst the chicory root provides prebiotic fibre that supports healthy digestion and gut bacteria.
Brewing recommendation: Use 1-2 teaspoons per cup, brew for 5-7 minutes. Delicious black or with your choice of milk and sweetener.
Dandelion and burdock root are this product’s main ingredients and are among the most beneficial functional roots. You can enjoy up to five cups a day without excessive caffeine.
The taste is lighter and smoother than the dark roast, with natural sweetness from the roasted roots. It’s gentle on the stomach with no acidity, making it perfect for those seeking digestive support or anyone wanting a gentle coffee alternative.
Best for: Those seeking digestive support, anyone wanting a gentle coffee alternative, or people who prefer a lighter roast profile.
This organic coconut milk creamer is a powder designed to substitute dairy products. You can enjoy this by mixing the creamer with hot water or adding it to your drink for a richer, creamier texture. It’s an excellent option for people with lactose intolerance who love creamy beverages without digestive issues.
This product contains manganese, which is vital for bone health. It’s made with the finest organic coconuts to offer premium quality with a tropical aroma. It’s suitable for various diets (vegan, dairy-free, paleo), and the packaging is environmentally friendly to ensure sustainability.
How to use: Mix 1-2 teaspoons into any hot beverage. Creates a naturally sweet, creamy texture without artificial ingredients.
Chaga is known as the king of mushrooms. Ötzibrew’s Chaga is wild-harvested from birch trees in pristine northern forests, ensuring the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.
As covered in the health benefits section, Chaga offers immune support, anti-inflammatory properties, and adaptogenic benefits that help manage stress and support cognitive health.
Brewing traditional Chaga: For the full experience, simmer 1-2 tablespoons of Chaga in 1 litre of water for 20-30 minutes. The resulting brew will be dark and rich, and can be reheated or served over ice. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Understanding how Ötzibrew fits into various dietary requirements helps you make informed choices about incorporating it into your lifestyle.
| Beverage | Caffeine Content (per 250ml) |
|---|---|
| Regular Coffee | 95-200mg |
| Instant Coffee | 60-80mg |
| Black Tea | 40-70mg |
| Ötzibrew Blends | 40-50mg |
| Pure Chaga | 0mg |
| Decaf Coffee | 2-5mg |
While Ötzibrew is generally safe, be aware of potential interactions:
After discovering the remarkable benefits and rich cultural heritage of mushroom coffee, you might be ready to explore this exciting brew. Reducing caffeine consumption can unlock numerous advantages, including increased productivity, better sleep quality, and a more balanced start to each day.
Ötzibrew mushroom coffee represents more than just a coffee substitute; it’s a return to ancestral wisdom combined with modern nutritional understanding. Whether you’re looking to support your gut health with prebiotic chicory, boost cognitive function with Lion’s Mane, or access the adaptogenic benefits of Chaga, there’s a blend suited to your needs.
Begin with the Chicory & Cordyceps Dark Roast if you’re coming from regular coffee; the flavour profile will feel most familiar. Experiment with brewing methods to find your perfect cup. Give yourself a week to adjust to the different taste profile.
For those interested in the full functional benefits, try Pure Chaga or Lion’s Mane alongside your chosen blend. The combination of different mushrooms creates synergistic effects that support multiple aspects of wellness.
Ready to make the switch? Visit otzibrew.com to explore their full range and find the perfect blend for your lifestyle. Your future self, more focused, better rested, and digestively comfortable, will thank you.
No, it doesn’t taste like culinary mushrooms at all. The dried medicinal mushrooms have a mild, slightly earthy flavour that’s completely different from button or portobello mushrooms. When combined with roasted chicory, the result is rich, roasted, and satisfying, remarkably similar to traditional coffee. Most people are pleasantly surprised that they can’t detect any “mushroom” flavour.
This is one of the primary benefits that most people report: no crash. The combination of lower caffeine and adaptogenic mushrooms creates sustained, stable energy rather than the spike-and-crash cycle of high-caffeine beverages. The chicory’s prebiotic fibre also supports stable blood sugar, contributing to steady energy throughout the day.
Most people can comfortably enjoy 2-3 cups of coffee daily. Even three cups (120-150mg total caffeine) falls well below the NHS-recommended 400mg daily limit for healthy adults. For pure Chaga (which is caffeine-free), you can drink up to 5 cups daily. Start with one cup and assess how you feel before increasing consumption.
Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new functional foods during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some practitioners approve moderate consumption, whilst others prefer avoiding all adaptogens. Your midwife or doctor can provide guidance based on your individual health profile.
Regular decaf coffee still contains coffee beans, with most of the caffeine removed chemically or through water processing. It retains coffee’s acidity and can still irritate sensitive stomachs. Ötzibrew contains no coffee beans at all; it’s made from chicory root and mushrooms, making it naturally low-caffeine or caffeine-free, depending on the blend. It’s also alkaline rather than acidic, gentler on digestion, and provides functional mushroom benefits that decaf coffee lacks.
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