Kombucha tea is a powerful intestinal and immune regulator

As popular as a cleanser in Asian cultures, the therapeutic properties of the kombucha drink are not yet as well known in this part of the world. This tea, naturally fermented by the action of the SCOBY fungus , covers a wide range of benefits, guarantors of health.

How to take kombucha: recommended doses

Also known as Manchurian mushroom or kombu tea, it is a refreshing drink with an acid taste , obtained by the fermentation of a certain culture of live bacteria and fungi called SCOBY ( Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast ).

Among these microorganisms we find:

• Acetobacter
• Lactobacillus
• Bacterium xylinum
• Bacterium Katogenum
• Gluconacetobacter kombuchae
• Candida stellata

Although there may be variations in the strains, kombucha tea provides us with a high supply of vitamins (from groups B, C, D, E or K), amino acids, minerals ( potassium , iron, calcium or magnesium, among others), essential fatty acids and polyphenols , which translate into numerous systemic benefits for our health:

• Its content in digestive enzymes and vitamin B facilitates digestion, obtaining energy, improves memory and counteracts excess estrogen, relieving menstrual symptoms.
• Due to its probiotic activity it regulates the metabolism of intestinal transit, dissipating the discomfort of constipation and strengthening the immune system .
• Being rich in glucosamine, it stimulates the production of synovial hyaluronic acid, responsible for keeping the joints lubricated and flexible. It takes care of the cartilage and prevents the wear of the joint that causes pain in osteoarthritis.
• Its glucuronic acid improves liver function and promotes cleansing of the body by expelling toxins and dealing with free radicals .
• Reduces the risk of arteriosclerosis .
• Relieves migraine , ulcers or kidney stones.
• Promotes cell regeneration.

As a general guideline, it is recommended to increase your water intake to aid in its detoxifying function and not exceed 3 cups a day .

Kombucha contraindications

It is recommended that people allergic to tea or fermented ones refrain from taking kombucha. Its intake is not recommended in:

• People with bleeding disorders, heart disease, and liver or kidney disease.
• Pregnant and lactating women, due to the blood effects of heparin and alcohol residues.
• Under 12 years old.
• Diabetics
• Patients with a weakened immune system.

Side effects

Generally, as a consequence of a defective conservation, intoxication can occur due to the presence of heavy metals (cadmium, lead …) that contaminate the preparation.

Among the main side effects we highlight:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Rashes
• Headache
• Cardiovascular shock
• Liver disorder
• Allergic reaction
• Metabolic acidosis due to an intake higher than recommended

Interactions with other medications

Kombucha tea has an acidic pH (between 2 and 3) that, combined with certain medications sensitive to acidic conditions, can alter its effects.

How to Prepare and Store Kombucha

As it is a fermented preparation, it must spend a lot of time in the container, so steel is recommended to prepare the tea and sterilized glass for its conservation.

It is always preferable to buy it already prepared to avoid cross contamination, but if we want to produce our own kombucha we will only need :

• 1 liter of mineral water
• 2 tea bags
• 1 SCOBY culture
• Half a cup of apple cider vinegar
• 50 grams of sugar

We prepare the tea, add the sugar and let it cool. When it is warm, we pour it into the glass jar and add the SCOBY and the vinegar. We close and cover the jar with a cloth.

For proper conservation we must deposit it in a ventilated place, with a temperature oscillating between 21-25º C and free from direct solar radiation.

Once we start to consume it, we will keep it in the fridge, always covered .

This almost magical preparation offers us interesting benefits for our health. However, consulting with our doctor about the suitability of its intake will be a good practice that will avoid unpleasant surprises.