Author: Coach Sumo | Founder & CEO of KnowYourMealsBlog.com
You’ve been asking on social media, so I have put together a comprehensive guide to the benefits of kombucha tea, covering everything you need to know about this popular fermented beverage. From its origins to its potential health benefits, I’ve got you covered.
What is Kombucha Tea?
Kombucha tea is a fermented drink made from tea, sugar, and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. The culture, also known as a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), looks like a gelatinous disc and is responsible for fermenting the tea mixture.
The History of Kombucha Tea
The history of kombucha tea is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have originated in China over 2,000 years ago. From there, it spread to other parts of Asia and Europe, eventually making its way to the United States.
7 Major Benefits of Kombucha Tea
- Probiotics: Kombucha tea is a natural source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut. These bacteria help to support a healthy immune system and aid in digestion.
- Antioxidants: Kombucha tea is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
- Improved digestion: Kombucha tea can help to improve digestion by promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria and aiding in the breakdown of food.
- Detoxification: Kombucha tea contains gluconic acid, which can help to detoxify the body by binding to and eliminating toxins.
- Reduced inflammation: Kombucha tea contains polyphenols, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
- Increased energy: Kombucha tea contains caffeine and B-vitamins, which can help to increase energy levels and improve mental clarity.
- Improved joint health: Kombucha tea contains glucosamines, which are compounds that help to support joint health and reduce the risk of arthritis.
Bring on the Polyphenols!
Polyphenols are a group of compounds found in many plant-based foods, including tea. Kombucha tea is rich in polyphenols, which have been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits.
One of the most well-known sources of polyphenols is green tea. Like green tea, kombucha tea contains polyphenols such as catechins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Studies have shown that the polyphenols in green tea may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Similarly, the polyphenols in kombucha tea may also offer similar health benefits.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, the polyphenols in kombucha tea have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, so reducing inflammation can be beneficial for overall health.
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of polyphenols in kombucha tea, it is clear that these compounds offer a variety of potential health benefits. So if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy beverage, consider adding kombucha tea to your diet.
And, of course, since I release at least 60 recipes a month on my TikTok page, you know I have a recipe for my readers…
Ingredients:
- 1 SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast)
- 1 cup of sugar
- 8 tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose tea
- 14 cups of water
- A large glass jar or brewing vessel
- A cloth or coffee filter to cover the jar
- A rubber band
Instructions:
- Boil 14 cups of water in a large pot, then remove from heat.
- Add 8 tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose tea to the hot water and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags or strain the loose tea, then add 1 cup of sugar to the tea and stir until dissolved.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
- Once the tea has cooled, pour it into a large glass jar or brewing vessel.
- Add the SCOBY to the tea, along with 1-2 cups of previously brewed kombucha (if available).
- Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter and secure with a rubber band.
- Store the jar in a warm, dark place for 7-14 days. The longer you let it ferment, the more sour it will become.
- After 7-14 days, taste the kombucha tea to see if it is ready. If it is too sweet, let it ferment for a few more days. If it is too sour, you can add more sugar and let it ferment for a few more days.
- Once the kombucha tea is ready, remove the SCOBY and 1-2 cups of the liquid to use as a starter for your next batch. You can also flavor the kombucha tea with fruit, herbs, or spices at this point, if desired.
- Bottle the kombucha tea and store it in the refrigerator until ready to drink.
Making your own kombucha tea is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to customize the flavor and enjoy the many health benefits of this popular beverage. And just in case you want to give it a try and see for yourself, I’m including THIS LINK to a great kombucha starter kit from friends over at The Kombucha Shop.
Product description and link:
The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha Starter Kit – 1 Gallon Brewing Kit Includes • All The Essentials Required for Brewing Kombucha At Home