Artisanal and fermented drinks are widely accepted in the market due to the great benefits they have for the consumer. Kombucha is no exception.
In the following article we will delve into what kombucha is, what its benefits are, and how to drink this fermented tea drink correctly.
What is kombucha?
Kombucha is a delicious fermented drink, made from Chinese tea, black tea, or red tea.
It is defined as a probiotic infusion , because it is fermented through the action of colonies of a symbiotic culture of microorganisms (which allows the interaction of different species in the same environment) such as yeasts and bacteria (Schizosaccharomyces Pombe, Gluconacetobacter Kombuchae and Acetobacter Ketogenicum) . (1)
Note: The kombucha culture is called Chinese fungus or Scoby because its acronym in English refers to Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeasts.
Kombucha is then, a preparation that has the advantage of an incredible repertoire of medicinal and probiotic properties, which even improve the intestinal microbiota and provide protection against invasive external agents.
What are the benefits of kombucha?
As we previously mentioned, due to the nature of kombucha and its properties, there are different benefits to this drink . They will be mentioned and described below for your recognition and consideration.
1. Strengthens the immune system
Because kombucha is a great source of antioxidants , it helps strengthen the immune system. It also provides vitamins B and C , which is why it also influences an increase in energy and is recommended for daily consumption. (two)
2. Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol
Kombucha favors blood pressure by regulating its values . According to studies carried out at the National Autonomous University of Mexico , in tests carried out on the fermented drink, antihypertensive and hypoglycemic values were verified. (3)
Note: Regarding cholesterol, it was demonstrated through scientific methods the reduction of values in LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, while favoring the production of HDL (good cholesterol).
3. Eliminate toxic substances
Kombucha favors the effect and functioning of the liver , so there is an improvement in the elimination of food, environmental and even hormonal toxins. For this reason, its consumption is encouraged as a powerful detoxifier.
4. Supports intestinal and liver health
As we previously mentioned, it favors the correct functionality of the liver and balances the acidity levels in the stomach, thus reducing complicated digestibility and helping the stability of the bacterial flora.
5. Reduces headaches
This drink has a fairly significant amount of caffeine, which reduces headaches and improves the symptoms of migraines.
6. Improves menstrual and menopausal discomfort
Among the benefits of kombucha, the ability to reduce the symptoms of the menstrual period and menopausal hot flashes stands out.
Important: Its principle is based on the fact that kombucha, with its detoxification capacity, eliminates excess estrogen , which reduces the previously mentioned disorders.
7. Contributes to weight loss
There are affirmations where they establish that the consumption of kombucha favors weight loss and loss of body fat. In the same way, it improves metabolism, stimulates fat burning and for both reasons the opportunity to produce fat accumulation is reduced.
8. Reduces stress and insomnia
Kombucha has the ability to help in the process of reducing stress, depressive symptoms, and insomnia. Despite the fact that it contains amounts of caffeine that favor the reduction of headaches, they are values that do not influence the sleep cycle.
On the contrary, by helping to balance pH and blood pressure, kombucha reduces the previously mentioned symptoms and helps to achieve and maintain a state of calm in the body.
How should you drink kombucha tea?
The fermented black tea infusion is made in a very specific way to obtain kombucha. Mentioned below are the necessary ingredients and the procedure.
Ingredients
- kombucha mushroom
- prepared kombucha
- Tea bag (green, black, red)
- Sugar
- Water
Preparation and consumption
- Tea is made in the traditional way, through the leaching process. Heat the tea or tea leaves in boiling water. It is important to add sugar at this time so that it dissolves without any problem.
- Subsequently, the tea is added to a glass container and the liquid from the kombucha mushroom or a previously prepared kombucha is added to function as an activator of the fermentation process.
- The gelatinous disc (bacteria and yeast fungus) that usually floats is added.
- A cloth is placed on top of the glass container that completely covers the opening and is held with a rubber so that there is no possibility of any external agent becoming an intruder.
- It is left to rest for a period of time between 7 and 14 days, depending on the amount of acid that the consumer prefers.
- It is important that it rests in an environment of approximately 20°C and without contact with sunlight.
- As a last step, the fungus is removed after the necessary time has passed, the liquid is filtered, bottled and cooled. Ready to consume the homemade kombucha.
Key Findings
- Kombucha is a drink with a delicious flavor , fermented mainly from black or Chinese tea.
- It is inoculated by a strain developed symbiotically between bacteria and yeast.
- Kombucha has the benefits of detoxification and favoring intestinal transit and its bacterial flora.
- It provides antioxidants and vitamins to the body, so its daily consumption is even recommended.
- Kombucha tea favors the reduction of symptoms such as headaches, stress and depressive symptoms.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.