Mushroom Chocolate for Sleep: Can It Actually Help You Wind Down?

Can mushroom chocolate help you wind down? It's not a sleep aid, and we'd never pitch it as one. But a couple of squares can be a really nice part of an evening routine. Here's what's going on and how we'd fit it in.

The Mushrooms Linked to Calm

Not every functional mushroom is about energy. Some have a long history as "calming" mushrooms:

• Reishi: nicknamed the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional practice and long associated with calm and relaxation. Researchers have looked at reishi and sleep, though the evidence is still early
• Chaga: rich in antioxidants and a staple of evening mushroom teas
• Lion's mane: better known as a daytime focus mushroom, but people often mention its mood benefits too

Our Proprietary Mushroom Blend includes all three, plus cordyceps and, in most products, rhodiola.

Cacao and Sleep: The Nuance

Chocolate has a little caffeine, far less than coffee, plus theobromine, a gentler stimulant. For most people a small serving a couple of hours before bed isn't a problem. If you're sensitive to caffeine, have your chocolate earlier in the evening, 3–4 hours before bed.

How to Use It in an Evening Routine

A small amount (1–3 squares) 2–3 hours before bed can be a nice way to shift out of work mode. Most people describe the feeling as a mood lift and a relaxed, easy headspace, which is perfect for journaling, a show, a good conversation, or doing absolutely nothing.

It won't knock you out, and it isn't meant to. Think of it as part of your wind-down, not a sleep aid.

Which Flavors Work Best at Night?

Go for the comfort flavors: Milk Chocolate, S'mores and Buttercup (our chocolate peanut butter bar) are evening favorites. One to skip at night: Matcha Heaven. Matcha has caffeine, so we save that one for mornings and afternoons.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For adults only. Don't drive or operate machinery after eating, and check with your doctor if you're pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.

Related Reading

• Functional Mushroom Benefits
• Our Flavor Guide