Homebrew MUD\WTR

Elijah Szasz
6 min readMar 3, 2023

If you’ve been on Instagram since the pandemic, you’ve likely seen ads from MUD/WTR, an adaptogenic mushroom coffee replacement. I felt like the folks in the ads were targeting millennial wantrepreneurs who strolled through the forest with their man-buns while contemplating their next big venture raise. But alas, my wife also got these ads and actually bought some. It sat in our cupboard for months before I finally decided to drink it. Not bad. Not coffee, but not bad. But it’s also really pricey and like so many things in the nutraceutical world, it’s not exactly clear how much of what you are actually getting. I found some posts on DIY versions and wanted to post one that was more than a single serving.

Here’s what’s in it, why you want it, and how much of it you need for a 20-serving container:

  1. SACRED 7 Mushroom Extract Powder- Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake, Shiitake, Turkey Tail, Chaga, 10 tsp

Adaptogenic mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, are a group of mushrooms that are believed to have various health benefits, including stress reduction, immune system support, and improved overall well-being.

These mushrooms contain bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenes, and beta-glucans, which are known to help regulate the body’s stress response, boost immune function, and promote cellular health.

Additionally, adaptogenic mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Some of the most commonly used adaptogenic mushrooms include Reishi, Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Turkey Tail. Each of these mushrooms has unique properties that can benefit the body in different ways. For example, Reishi is known for its calming properties, while Cordyceps is believed to support energy and stamina.

2. Blue Lotus Traditional Masala Chai, 10 tsp

Masala chai is a type of tea that originated in India and has several reasons for mixing into your beverage game:

  • Promotes digestion: The spices in masala chai, such as ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon, are known for their digestive properties and can help relieve bloating, gas, and nausea.
  • Boosts immunity: Some of the spices used in masala chai, such as ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper, have immune-boosting properties and can help fight off infections.
  • Reduces inflammation: Certain spices used in masala chai, such as ginger and cinnamon, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Provides energy: Masala chai contains caffeine, which can help increase alertness and improve mental focus. Additionally, the spices in masala chai can help boost metabolism and provide energy.
  • Relieves stress: Masala chai has a soothing and calming effect and can help relieve stress and anxiety. The warmth and aroma of the spices can also have a comforting effect.
  • Improves heart health: The flavonoids in black tea used in masala chai have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function and reducing inflammation.

3. Navitas Organics Organic Cacao Powder, 14 tbsp

Cacao powder is made from the roasted seeds of the cacao tree and is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Here are some of the reasons why cacao powder is good for you:

  • High in antioxidants: Cacao powder is one of the highest antioxidant-rich foods, which can help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
  • Boosts heart health: Cacao powder is rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • Improves cognitive function: Cacao powder contains caffeine and theobromine, which can help improve focus and cognitive function.
  • Mood booster: Cacao powder contains phenylethylamine, a compound that can boost mood and provide a sense of well-being.
  • Source of minerals: Cacao powder is a good source of magnesium, iron, potassium, and other minerals that are essential for good health.
  • May help regulate blood sugar: Cacao powder has a low glycemic index and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
  • May improve exercise performance: Cacao powder contains compounds that can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles, which may improve exercise performance.

4. Turmeric Powder, 2.5 tsp

Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, and is also known for its medicinal properties. Here are some of the reasons why turmeric is good for you:

  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Antioxidant properties: Curcumin in turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
  • Pain relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin can help reduce pain and swelling in the body, making turmeric a natural pain reliever.
  • Digestive health: Turmeric can help improve digestive health by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Brain health: Curcumin in turmeric has been shown to improve cognitive function and may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Heart health: Curcumin can help improve heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to heart disease.
  • Cancer prevention: Some studies suggest that curcumin in turmeric may have anti-cancer properties and may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.

5. Cinnamon, 2.5 tsp

Cinnamon is a spice that has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. Here are some of the reasons why cinnamon is good for you:

  • High in antioxidants: Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants that can help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Cinnamon contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • May lower blood sugar: Cinnamon has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake.
  • May improve heart health: Cinnamon can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • May improve cognitive function: Cinnamon has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory and attention.
  • May have antimicrobial properties: Cinnamon contains compounds that have antimicrobial properties and may help fight off infections caused by bacteria and fungi.
  • May improve gut health: Cinnamon can help improve gut health by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

6. Himalayan Pink Sea Salt, 2.5 tsp

Himalayan pink sea salt is a type of salt that is mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan. Here are some of the reasons why adding Himalayan pink sea salt may be beneficial for you:

  • Rich in minerals: Himalayan pink sea salt contains more than 80 minerals and trace elements, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for good health.
  • May help balance electrolytes: Himalayan pink sea salt contains sodium and other electrolytes that can help balance the fluids in your body and support healthy nerve and muscle function.
  • May improve digestion: The minerals and trace elements in Himalayan pink sea salt may help improve digestion and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
  • May improve respiratory health: Himalayan pink sea salt has been used in salt therapy for centuries to help alleviate respiratory symptoms, such as asthma and allergies.
  • May support healthy pH levels: Himalayan pink sea salt may help support healthy pH levels in the body, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
  • May support healthy skin: Himalayan pink sea salt can be used as a natural exfoliant and can help improve the appearance of skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting skin hydration.

Here are the ingredients and ratios again for about 20 servings:

  1. SACRED 7 Mushroom Extract Powder- Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake, Shiitake, Turkey Tail, Chaga, 10 tsp
  2. Blue Lotus Traditional Masala Chai, 10 tsp
  3. Navitas Organics Organic Cacao Powder, 14 tbsp
  4. Turmeric Powder, 2.5 tsp
  5. Cinnamon, 2.5 tsp
  6. Himalayan Pink Sea Salt, 2.5 tsp

Directions, put 2 heaping tablespoons into about 8oz of hot water, milk, oat milk, camel milk, or whatever you’re into. I highly recommend using a rechargeable frother to blend it. Keep a spoon handy to give an occasional stir as you sip, because all this stuff has a tendency to sink to the bottom of your cup. Enjoy!

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Elijah Szasz

Elijah runs a LA/SLC creative agency focused on the good side of technology. He’s also a mediocre athlete, father, and entrepreneur. https://www.spark6.com/