Kombucha originated from China a thousand years ago and it was known as Divine Tea. It is also sometimes called as kombucha mushroom tea but it is not made from mushroom.
But kombucha tea has come a long way since its origin from China.They are now being commercially manufactured and bottled since the late 1990’s.
Kombucha are Made of:
Kombucha is a fermented drink made with sugar, tea, yeast and bacteria. It is produced by fermenting green or black tea, using a symbiotic colony of yeast and bacteria or what is known as SCOBY.
Then the colony of bacteria and yeast are added to sugar and tea, and the mix are fermented. The resulting drink contains B vitamins, vinegar and other chemical compounds.
Health Effects
Consumption of kombucha has been promoted with claims that it can help in the treatment of illnesses and other other beneficial health benefits that include the following:
- Cleansing and Detoxification
- Cancer Prevention
- Diabetes
- Increased Energy
- Improved Digestion
- Improved Mood
- Reduced Joint Pain
- Weight Loss
Side Effects/Downside of Kombucha Consumption
Although studies are suggestive of the possible health effects of kombucha, no human trials have been conducted to confirm its beneficial health effects. Also there are no quality evidence, that kombucha consumption benefits human health.
In fact, some adverse effects, that includes allergic reactions and upset stomach have been reported due to drinking of kombucha. This is in relation to the potential for contamination during home preparation.
Examples are the use of ceramic pots for brewing, drinkers may experience lead poisoning, as the acids in the tea may leach lead from the ceramic glaze. Another is, upset stomach that may be due to the acidity of the tea.
Conclusion
There are no further studies and research yet to prove that kombucha tea deliver on its health claims. Therefore, the most important approach is to consult a doctor if you have a medical condition or a weakened immune system before drinking kombucha. The most prudent approach with regards to kombucha is, to avoid drinking them until a more definitive result and information are available.