Kombucha tea - new magic potion?

These days, health-conscious folks are raving about the health benefits of Kombucha tea, but is it really worth all the praise?

Kombucha tea has been around for over two thousand years, but only recently it gained the attention of the health-conscious folks and celebrities. There are several health benefits associated with Kombucha tea, but as of yet, they have not been clinically proven. Celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan and MadonnaMadonna have been seen sipping on the tea, but it is advisable to first research into the health benefits and the adverse effects of the tea.

Ancient Chinese were strong advocates of the Kombucha tea. In fact, they called the tea "Immortal Health Elixir."

The Kombucha tea is made from a certain type of bacteria, yeast and then sugar and tea is added to it. The brew is a little hard to drink, but people have it due to the associated health benefits. Now that it has become popular, the Kombucha tea is available commercially, but it can also be brewed at home.

There are a number of health benefits associated with the Kombucha tea. It is known to detoxify the body, increase energy, sharpen eyesight, aid joint recovery, improve skin elasticity, improve digestion and prevent cancer and arthritis. However, it should be kept in mind that no clinical trials have been done on the tea and hence, nothing can be said for sure regarding these benefits.

One should be very careful while consuming this tea, as there are also some adverse effects associated with it. Some adverse symptoms include upset stomach, infectious and allergic reactions. Some deaths have also been indirectly linked with the Kombucha tea, so it should be used very carefully.

The adverse effects of the tea are usually because of the unsanitary conditions in which the tea is brewed. Since the home-brewing facilities vary greatly, the tea can easily become contaminated with harmful germs. The highest risk is posed when the Kombucha tea is brewed in ceramic, lead crystal or painted containers, as the acidity of the Kombucha tea can cause it to absorb these harmful chemicals from the container.

Women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding should avoid the use of it altogether.