Kombucha Tea & Cancer

Kombucha tea is an herbal supplement originating in East Asia. Since the 19th century, the basis of its popularity is its purported ability to strengthen the immune system and fight disease. Its popularity has grown in the United States, with bottled, capsule and sublingual versions now available. Although kombucha tea may entice cancer patients, some risks accompany its consumption. Speak with your doctor before using kombucha tea for cancer treatment.

Kombucha Tea Basics

Kombucha tea is prepared by fermenting yeast and bacteria cultures with black tea and sugar. Depending on the culture and method of preparation, the tea may contain mold and fungi, both of which can contribute to illness. It may also contain alcohol, acetic acid, ethyl acetate and lactate, which make the tea highly acidic.

Kombucha Claims

Manufacturers of kombucha tea claim it has the ability to cure insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, AIDS and cancer. No scientific evidence exists to support these claims, as no clinical trials involving humans have taken place. The only studies are lab reports from animal testing, explains Brent A. Bauer, M.D., of the Mayo Clinic.

Function

Kombucha tea may contain antioxidants, which may protect your cells from free radicals. The National Cancer Institute explains that free radical damage to cells may result in cancer, and that antioxidants may stabilize them, preventing some of the damage they cause. Manufacturers claim kombucha tea detoxifies the bodies of cancer patients, enhancing the immune system, according to the American Cancer Society. The body may then repair damaged cells. To aid in the detoxification process, ACS explains that kombucha tea drinkers remove all chemicals from their bodies, by quitting smoking, and eliminating alcohol, caffeine and hormone-fed meat products. The ACS does not give any any specific time frame for the detoxification process.

Kombucha Risks

Bauer notes a direct link between some deaths and kombucha tea. Anthrax, an acute infection, and liver damage may also occur. Some forms of brewing and brewing facilities can contaminate the tea with germs that weaken the immune systems of people with AIDS and cancer, according to the ACS. Bauer reports that risk of contamination is high when you brew the tea at home under non-sterile conditions. Metabolic acidosis is yet another potentially life-threatening risk, resulting when your body produces too much acid, or your kidneys are unable to remove acid from your body.

Considerations

According to Bauer, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the claims manufacturers make about the benefits of kombucha tea, including its health benefits for cancer patients. Clinical studies are necessary to establish definitive risks and benefits. Until then, Bauer recommends avoiding kombucha tea.