Overview
Kombucha is made by mixing tea (black, green, red, or white) with sugar and other ingredients, and fermenting at room temperature for 7-14 days with a specific mix of yeast and bacteria. It is sometimes described incorrectly as a mushroom.
People use kombucha for cancer, high blood pressure, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Kombucha contains alcohol, vinegar, B vitamins, caffeine, sugar, and other substances. Kombucha might act as an antioxidant.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Kombucha is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults. Kombucha has been reported to cause some side effects, including stomach problems, yeast infections, allergic reactions, yellow skin (jaundice), nausea, vomiting, and death.
When kombucha is made under conditions where it can be contaminated with disease-causing fungus or bacteria, such as in the home setting, it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Also, 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 side effects and/or poisoning.
Special Precautions
and Warnings
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Kombucha is POSSIBLY UNSAFE during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Alcoholism: Kombucha contains alcohol. Avoid it if you have a drinking problem.
Diabetes: Kombucha might affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes and use 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 might worsen symptoms of IBS.
Surgery: Since kombucha seems to affect blood glucose levels, there is a concern that it 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 due to HIV/AIDS or other causes. Kombucha can support the growth of bacteria and fungus that can cause serious infections.
Dosing
The appropriate dose of kombucha tea depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for kombucha tea. 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 your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
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.
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© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.