What Is Kombucha?

So what Is Kombucha?
The popularity of Kombucha has skyrocketed over the past 10 years.  Once a nuance it is now a staple in nearly every grocery store around the country. In its most basic form Kombucha is a fermented tea packed full of antioxidants and probiotics.  While Kombucha really just caught on here in the United States over the past decade its use for first recorded in China in 221 BC during the Tsin Dynasty.  They referred to the fermented tea as “The Tea of Immortality” because of its vast health benefits which we will discuss later.

What Is Kombucha?

Kombucha tea is made by combining tea, sugar and a living culture know as a “Mother” or “Scoby”.  This culture is basically yeast and bacteria.  Sounds gross I know, but it is what give the tea all its health benefits.   The Mother or Scoby basically eats the sugar, growing in size while fermenting the tea.  So the end result of a pure Kombucha tea is nearly sugar free.

The taste of the tea can vary depending on how its brewed and what is added to it for flavor, but original Kombucha can be an acquired taste for many.  It tastes like nothing you have had before.  Maybe a combination of apple cider vinegar, champaign, beer and Kefir.  Basically you just have to try it.

Advocates claim there are many health benefits to drinking this elixir.  The primary benefits are the detoxifying properties because of the high levels of antioxidants, the immune system boosting qualities and the digestive aid it provides because of the probiotics.  Some people also claim it can reduce stress and improve liver function.  Many people claim they can feel the drink working through their body the moment they consume it.  What Is Kombucha?

Some people claim Kombucha is an anti-carcinogen because of how powerful the detoxifying properties are said to be.

Kombucha is now available everywhere and can easily be made at home for a truly organic and living experience.  Every health based grocery store carries the product including Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Good Earth, but is also available at most every other stores these days as well.

When it first hit the market it the tea mostly came in simple flavors such as original, ginger and citrus, but these days there are over 100 varieties to choose from and dozens of brands.  I have reviewed the best kombucha tea brands and flavors on this site.

What Is Kombucha?

It is recommended to not drink too much Kombucha at first.  The strong detoxifying properties of the tea can have adverse affects if consumed in excess.  It is said not to consume if you have a pre existing liver condition.  Children under six should not consume, neither should woman who are breast feeding.  If you have any concerns it is best to consult your doctor before introducing anything new to your diet.

So thats what is kombucha!

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