Brews With Benefits: 9 Coffee Alternatives That Promote Wellbeing

If you are looking to switch up your daily cup of Joe for something with added wellbeing benefits that will help you focus, de-stress or even support your immune system, then there is a wealth of wellness brews on the market to choose from. Antioxidant-rich mushrooms like reishi and lion's mane have caused quite the culinary wellness buzz over the last year. And yet their benefits have far deeper roots than that: they have actually been used in wellbeing practices in Japan and China for centuries.

Reishi mushrooms are known for their adaptogenic properties; helping the body adapt to stress and promoting an overall sense of calm. They are also believed to support the immune system, which is great for a pre-emptive health boost in winter. Lion's mane mushrooms on the other hand are recognised for their cognitive benefits, promoting brain health and potentially aiding in memory and concentration.

Coffee substitutes

Drinks like turmeric lattes or ashwagandha-laced bedtime blends called ‘moon milks’ use ancient Ayurvedic wisdom to bring a wealth of wellness benefits to your daily cuppa. Turmeric, for instance, is prized for its anti-inflammatory benefits due to its active compound curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that alleviates joint pain, supports digestion, and boosts the immune system.

Matcha tea

Matcha tea, derived from powdered green tea leaves, is an antioxidant powerhouse. It provides a gentle energy boost without the jangly nerves, thanks to the naturally-occurring L-theanine, which promotes relaxation. Matcha is celebrated in many eastern cultures for boosting mental alertness, enhancing concentration and providing a sustained energy release throughout the day.