Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Spotlight: Kombucha

Is anyone else out there absolutely in love with raw kombucha?? We are <3 (especially you, Gingerade).


What is it exactly? 
Kombucha is a tea-based beverage often drunk for its health benefits. Although there is limited scientific info supporting kombucha, there are quite a hefty number of anecdotal accounts supporting the health benefits (see below). Regardless, this stuff is delish. It tastes sort of like champagne and is an awesome alcohol substitute if you're looking for a drink to kick back with. 


Reap the (possible) Benefits:
> detoxifies body 
> energizes mind
> aids cancer recovery
> sharpens eyesight
> aids joint recovery
> improves skin elasticity
> aids digestion
> magical powers (just kidding)


**From my personal experience, I DO believe that kombucha aids digestion. I've been drinking kombucha for the past 10 days and have noticed a huge difference in my overall bodily comfort. I used to always get cramps or aches after eating. Not so much anymore :) 


Kombucha: A History
The recorded history of kombucha began in Russia in the late 19th century. Some sources suggest that kombucha originated in ancient China or Japan, but there are no written records to support these claims. 


How to Brew:
Kombucha can be made at home by fermenting tea using a visible, solid mass of yeast and bacteria which forms the kombucha culture which is often referred to as the "mushroom" or the "mother."


Here is a step by step recipe for kombucha.


**Note: Be very careful when brewing your own kombucha, as this tea-based beverage can be easily contaminated.


Drink Up!
Lemon Mocktail at Portobello
Kombucha Mocktail by CulturesforHealth

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