Coffee is a treasured part of the American morning routine, but it can have some downsides. Excess caffeine can cause jitters, anxiety, and post-crash drowsiness. Plus, coffee is acidic, which means drinking too much of it can cause stomach discomfort.

Some folks are looking to move away from a dependency on caffeine. They might have health concerns about their consumption. Others might just want to try something new.

No matter the reason, it can be hard to change habits and leave familiar comforts behind. Trying to drop coffee altogether can make you feel deprived of one of life’s simple pleasures. With that in mind, here are some excellent coffee alternatives to keep you alert, focused, and happy.

 

Dandelion Instant “Coffee”

Dandy Blend is rich, tasty beverage composed of just 5 ingredients. Made of roasted barley, rye, dandelion root, sugar beet, and chicory, Dandy Blend replicates the flavor of coffee without the caffeine crash. Just add hot water to the mixture to instantly create a perfect cup of comfort. Dandelion root is nutritious in its own right, being high in vitamins A, C, K, and E. It is also rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Dandelion root contains plenty of antioxidants, including polyphenols and beta carotene. This makes it a terrific coffee alternative, as it provides many of the same health benefits as your daily cup of joe. Dandelion has also traditionally been used a detoxifier; it cleans out the kidneys and helps remove toxins from your body. It’s a great way to get a jump on some internal “Spring cleaning!”

Give this innovative beverage blend a try, and you’ll quickly be convinced. It mixes into hot water or milk just like instant coffee.

 

Moringa

Moringa Oleifera is a tree native to our planet’s eastern hemisphere. Long used a source of food and medicine throughout India, Africa, and Southeast Asia, this powerful plant packs tons of health benefits. It has even been described as “the most nutritionally dense plant in the world,” and for good reason. Uniquely, almost every part of the tree is edible and brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A serving of moringa boasts 7 times the vitamin C of an orange and 15 times the potassium of a banana. Consequently, studies suggest that consuming moringa can help with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic inflammation, and more.

You can make a delicious hot beverage using moringa powder. Just add it to warmed dairy or non-dairy milk, with sweetener as needed. The result will be a smooth and mellow beverage not unlike matcha. However, this drink contains no caffeine. Instead, you’ll get an all-day energy boost from moringa’s vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

 

Golden Milk

Golden Milk is a beverage made with turmeric and other warming spices. As you may know, turmeric is one of nature’s most powerful anti-inflammatories; it helps fight oxidative stress in our bodies. This is important for alleviating discomfort caused by conditions such as arthritis and heart disease. The other, equally important ingredients in golden milk are ginger and cinnamon, both of which have their own beneficial properties. Cinnamon has been shown to help boost brain function and guard against the buildup of tau protein in the brain (the buildup of this protein is responsible for Alzheimer’s disease.) Finally, ginger has been used for millennia to promote healthier digestion and relieve nausea.

Make golden milk by stirring homemade or store-bought spice powder into hot water or milk. Each sip feels nourishing and restorative, with a subtle and earthy taste.

 

Herbal Tea “Coffee”

Teecino provides a robust, full flavor similar to coffee but with its own unique taste. It is made from different botanical blends designed to mimic the taste and sensation of a cup of coffee, but sans caffeine. Teecino is available in a broad range of flavors and blends, including varieties with functional ingredients and adaptogens. True to the name, Teecino can be brewed and enjoyed just like cappuccino: special care was taken in the blending process to ensure it would work with any coffee machine. Start your day with a familiar and comforting ritual; as your coffee machine burbles away and that familiar aroma fills your kitchen, you won’t even remember that this beverage has no caffeine.

Explore the range of Teecino options to find out which you like best.

 

Mushroom Coffee

Is there anything mushrooms can’t do? You can make them into jerky, burgers, candy, leather, and… coffee? That’s right. Dried and ground mushroom mix, often known as mushroom elixir, is an increasingly popular coffee alternative. Not only do superfood mushrooms provide a complex flavor comparable to java, they are also full of health-supporting compounds.  Adaptogens, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber; there’s no caffeine in mushroom elixir, but nonetheless you will feel a mood boost. Cordyceps mushroom provides  energy and alertness. Reishi is perfect for post-work relaxation. Lion’s Mane promotes cognition, while Chaga builds immunity.

Start your day or perk up your afternoon with a cup of this special brew. Stir the powder into hot water, and it works just like instant coffee. For a creamier, more luscious experience, stir into milk instead.

 

There are so many coffee alternatives out there these days – we are truly spoiled for choice. Whether you’re giving up coffee for good or just trying something new, be sure to give these options a try.