Kombucha is a folk drink made from a colony of bacteria that resembles a mushroom. The bacteria is placed in a mixture of black or green tea sweetened with sugar. The sugar is consumed by the bacteria, which give off specific byproducts, like vinegar and vitamins. Online websites claim that Kombucha can alleviate a variety of health disorders. The effects of the tea are beings studied, although no human trials exist to document its health benefits.
Constituents
Kombucha tea can be made from a variety of bacterial cultures and yeast; the exact constituents in the tea will depend on what type of bacteria and yeast are used, as well as the kind of tea. Kombucha tea contains L-lactic and glucuronic acids, both of which are needed by the body. Lactic acid works to active cellular respiration, while glucuronic acid is needed for liver detoxification. Other ingredients in the tea include 0.5 percent alcohol, carbon dioxide, vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, folic acid, acetic acid, gluconic acid, oxalic acid, usnic acid, fructose, enzymes and minerals.
Hepatoprotective Properties
Kombucha tea has been studied for its effects on certain conditions. An April 2009 study was conducted by Bharathiar University and published in The Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. Researchers sought to discover whether or not Kombucha tea could impact the liver's cells after liver toxicity was induced on male rats. The experiments found that Kombucha, black and enzyme-processed teas have the potential to revert liver toxicity. The Kombucha tea, however, was more potent than the other two teas, and worked more effectively.
Antioxidant Properties
Depending on the brew, Kombucha contains a variety of vitamins, including antioxidants. A September 2003 study published in the journal of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences documented Kombucha's effects on lead toxicity in rats. Researchers at the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences found that oral administration of Kombucha tea resulted in a decrease in DNA damage and an increase in glutathione, which is needed for liver detoxification, levels. Researchers concluded that the tea has "potent antioxidant" properties.
Cautions
Kombucha tea is not regulated by the FDA and has not been successfully tested on humans. Some cases of toxicity have resulted from Kombucha ingestion, including lactic acidosis and lead poisoning. If the tea is home-brewed and stored in ceramic pots, the acidic nature of the tea can leach lead from the ceramic glaze. Discover the source of the Kombucha before purchasing or drinking, and talk to your doctor if you feel any ill effects of the tea.
Member Comments