What is Kombucha tea? What makes it so popular and how to make it at home?

Kombucha is basically a fermented sweet and slightly tarty drink, which is made with black or green tea. Kombucha is also known as Tea mushroom and Tea fungus depending on the culture of bacteria or yeast used to ferment it.

The origin of Kombucha dates back to nearly 2,000 years ago, when it was first brewed in China. Gradually, the health benefits and its unique sweet and sour taste made it popular in countries like Japan and Russia. Around the 20th century, this drink became popular in European countries and in the USA. But what makes this Kombucha tea so popular?

Kombucha Tea is made in various ways, but some of the basic ingredients used in making Kombucha are yeast, sugar and black tea. The mixture is left to ferment for a few weeks. Kombucha bacteria includes lactic-acid bacteria, which works as a natural probiotic.

During the process of fermentation, these bacteria and acids amalgamate to form a layer on top of the liquid, which is known as SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast). This layer is used to prepare more Kombucha by gently pulling out using a spoon.

To begin with, take a large glass jug, add 1.4 cup cane sugar, and add 3 cups of hot water.

Allow the sugar to dissolve completely, then add 2 tea bags (green/black tea) Let it steep for 10 minutes.

Remove the tea bags and add 1/2 cup of vinegar or already prepared Kombucha.

Then slide in the active SCOBY. Cover with a layer or filter and keep it for 15-20 days. Store at 65 to 80 degrees in a cool dry place.

The longer you store the Kombucha the less sweeter it will taste.

Note: Lastly, extract the SCOBY and save ¼ cup to use as a starter and prepare more Kombucha.

According to health experts, Kombucha tea may help in improving digestion, gut health, helps in managing blood pressure, improves heart health and immunity. Apart from that it is also believed that some elements of this fermented tea can help in reducing the progression of cancer and AIDS; although, a lot of research is still needed to substantiate this fact. Kombucha made with green tea is rich in antioxidants, which helps in cell regeneration and helps in improving overall health and also boosts metabolism. In fact, moderate consumption of this drink can help in healing issues of IBS ( irritable bowel syndrome).