Overview

Kombucha is made by fermenting tea (black, green, red, or white) with sugar and other ingredients with specific types of bacteria and fungi.

Kombucha contains alcohol, vinegar, B vitamins, caffeine, sugar, and other substances. The cultures used to make kombucha are called SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeasts). They commonly contain Acetobacter xylinum, Gluconobacter, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

People use kombucha for aging, diabetes, memory, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for KOMBUCHA overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Kombucha that is made properly and in clean conditions is possibly safe. Side effects might include stomach upset.

Kombucha that is made under conditions where it can be contaminated is possibly unsafe. Kombucha that is made in containers that contain toxic chemicals, such as the lead in pottery glazes, is likely unsafe. These chemicals can get into the kombucha and might cause serious side effects or poisoning.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Kombucha that is made properly and in clean conditions is possibly safe. Side effects might include stomach upset.

Kombucha that is made under conditions where it can be contaminated is possibly unsafe. Kombucha that is made in containers that contain toxic chemicals, such as the lead in pottery glazes, is likely unsafe. These chemicals can get into the kombucha and might cause serious side effects or poisoning.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Kombucha is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth while pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Alcohol use disorder: Kombucha contains alcohol. People with alcohol use disorder should avoid kombucha.

Diarrhea: Kombucha contains caffeine. The caffeine in kombucha, especially when taken in large amounts, can worsen diarrhea.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Kombucha contains caffeine. The caffeine in kombucha, especially when taken in large amounts, can worsen diarrhea and symptoms of IBS.

Surgery: Kombucha seems to affect blood glucose levels. This might interfere with blood glucose control during and after surgery. Stop using kombucha at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Weak immune system: Don't use kombucha if you have a weakened immune system. Kombucha can support the growth of bacteria and fungus that can cause serious infections.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with KOMBUCHA

    Kombucha might lower blood sugar levels. Taking kombucha along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

    Minor Interaction

    Be watchful with this combination

  • Disulfiram (Antabuse) interacts with KOMBUCHA

    Kombucha contains alcohol. The body breaks down alcohol to get rid of it. Disulfiram decreases the break-down of alcohol. Taking kombucha along with disulfiram can cause a pounding headache, vomiting, flushing, and other unpleasant reactions. Don't drink any alcohol if you are taking disulfiram.

Dosing

Kombucha is made by fermenting tea (black, green, red, or white) with sugar and other ingredients with specific types of bacteria and fungi. The fermentation process takes 7-14 days at room temperature.

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of kombucha might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.