WHAT IS KOMBUCHA
Kombucha, known as the “immortal health elixir,” originated in the Far East more than a 100 years ago. Kombucha is a sweet and tangy probiotic fermented drink that is a mixture of both black tea and sugar. It helps in maintaining the health of our body because of the many minerals and vitamins present in it.
The fermentation process works by the bacteria and yeast and takes a maximum of 12 days to complete. This is also known as SCOBY. Kombucha has a wide range of benefits, some of which have been proven by scientific research and some which are still under research. There are four main components that make Kombucha effective.
- Detoxification
- Anti-oxidation
- Energizing properties
- Promotion of depressed immunity
NUTRITIONAL FACT SHEET
Source: https://wellnessmama.com/23994/kombucha-benefits/
HOW TO MAKE KOMBUCHA
- Wash all utensils thoroughly.
- Make 1 gallon of black tea or combine black and green tea.
- Add 1 cup sugar.
- Cool and pour the concoption in a glass jar.
- Add 1 cup brewed raw Kombucha OR 2 tablespoons of apple vinegar.
- Add SCOBY and let it float on the mixture.
- Cover with a cloth.
- Let fermentation take place till a maximum of 12 days.
- Add organic juice and 4 parts Kombucha in a jar.
- Cover and let the jars sit for a day or two.
- Store in the fridge.
BENEFITS OF KOMBUCHA
- Fights of Diseases
Kombucha is known to be very beneficial to the gut which aids in the process of detoxifying the human body. When the antioxidants start working together, the detoxifying process starts which hence, in turn, reduces any inflammation in your body and also prevents new inflammation from developing. Thus, this then helps prevent the development of various diseases in the body. Although simple black tea also has antioxidants, the fermented Kombucha tea further make these antioxidants more powerful.
- Aids in the Digestion Process
Probiotics, amino acids and various enzymes found in Kombucha are known to aid in the digestion process. All these elements combine together to fight off free radicals that can cause digestion problems. Also, Kombucha maintains a healthy probiotic balance in the digestive system, hence, preventing stomach ulcers from forming.
- Contributes to A Healthy Mind Set
This traditional beverage is known to contain a combination of vitamins, importantly Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is known to help improve your overall mental health. Drinking Kombucha would improve your mental state due to its vitamin properties by restoring energy levels in your brain. Moreover, depression is also known to affect the gut. Thus, by drinking Kombucha, you will be catering to both your cognitive and digestive system.
- Prevents Silicosis
Silicosis, a lung disease, that develops when our body comes into constant contact with silica particles. A group of Chinese researchers found out that drinking Kombucha can prevent one from developing silicosis.
- Good versus Bad Bacteria
Kombucha contains counteractive bacteria that is known to fight off the harmful bacteria present in our body. Research has shown that Kombucha bacteria has prevented and fought off staph E, coli, Sh. sonnei and other dangerous bacteria.
- Good for Liver Function
Kombucha prevents liver diseases and aids in maintaining a healthy liver. The liver is responsible for maintaining the overall health of a person. Thus, by protecting the liver, Kombucha performs a very important job.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should limit or refrain from consuming this traditional beverage as it contains both caffeine and sugar.
- Bloating may occur due to the probiotics present in the beverage.
- Be very cautious when making Kombucha.
- Do not make it in a ceramic container.
CONCLUSION
Overall, Kombucha is a beneficial drink. However, the only thing to keep track of is that you consult your doctor before consuming Kombucha. Also, be cautious when preparing Kombucha at home. It is better if one starts taking this beverage in small amounts and then slowly increase the amount.
