We live in interesting times. Health consciousness is in vogue, and so is mistrust of mainstream medicine. “Ancient” is often understood to mean “effective.” So it’s no surprise that kombucha, a fermented tea that dates back some 2,000 years, is the wellness drink of choice for many.
Pronounced “kom-BOO-cha,” the drink is a fusion of sugar, bacteria, yeast and, sometimes, fruit. Many people enjoy the tart, slight sweet taste of kombucha and may use it as a stand-in for soda or cocktails. But, undoubtedly, kombucha’s popularity is also powered by its purported health benefits — rumors that can be traced to the fermented tea’s origins.
Proponents of kombucha say it supports digestion, metabolism, immunity, liver function and more. Staunch kombucha evangelists say it can fight a variety of ailments, from hair loss to obesity to diabetes — even cancer and AIDS. A bit of “booch,” as it’s affectionately known, is also thought to rejuvenate, revitalize, reenergize and restore one’s body and mind.
But is kombucha a legitimate health panacea, or just another wellness fad?
