Externally, Kombucha, or, as it is also called, Japanese mushroom, looks like a dense yellowish mucous membrane resembling a jellyfish. It floats on the surface of the liquid and, falling in favorable conditions, can grow to an impressive size.
To obtain a tea drink, the mushroom or a small piece of it must be placed in a favorable environment: sweet (about 5 - 6 tsp. Sugar per liter of liquid) black or green tea of medium strength. A small piece of mushroom is placed in a three-liter jar and put it in a warm place. After a couple of days, it floats to the surface. In addition to regular sugar, glucose or fructose can be used. It is important to remember that tea should not be made too strong: Kombucha , the use of which is indicated for many diseases, develops poorly with an excess of tannins. If everything is done correctly, the drink will be ready in six to seven days.
For the systematic preparation of tea infusion, it is more convenient to have two cans: in the first it will be prepared, and in the second you need to pour the finished drink. In no case can sugar be added directly to the mushroom - it should be dipped only in the finished tea! Getting on the surface of the fungus, sugar crystals destroy its structure, and dark spots appear on it. He does not like mushroom and direct rays of the sun, it is better to keep it in a shaded place. The cold also affects it badly: Kombucha, the contraindications for its use are described quite clearly, develops much worse if the room temperature is below +18 degrees. To prepare the drink, use only boiled, soft water. The jar with the mushroom must not be covered with a lid so as not to block the air: it should be covered with a clean cloth.
Kombucha drink is aromatic, slightly carbonated, slightly sour in taste (because of this it is also called tea kvass). It contains many useful substances: Kombucha, which contraindications for use are limited, contains a unique vitamin complex (B vitamins, vitamin C, D, PP), enzymes, and organic acids. It strengthens the immune system and has a positive effect on the digestive tract. In addition, the specific substances contained in it are effective natural antibiotics: they inhibit the development of streptococci, staphylococci and other pathogenic bacteria.
Kombucha, contraindications to the use of which cannot be ignored, has a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora, destroying putrefactive bacteria. It is recommended for cholecystitis and spastic colitis, obesity and skin diseases. It helps to normalize cholesterol levels in the blood, therefore it is indicated for atherosclerosis. Tea drink moderately reduces pressure, has a therapeutic effect in colds, especially with tonsillitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis; enhances the effectiveness of treatment for trophic ulcers, frostbite and burns. Its systematic use improves skin condition and the nervous system, helps to normalize sleep, boosts immunity and saturates the body with vitamins.
For all the benefits that Kombucha can bring to the body, contraindications for its use should not be ignored. It is not recommended to use the infusion of the fungus with low blood pressure, increased acidity of the stomach, as well as various fungal diseases. In addition, Kombucha, the treatment of which in combination with other agents gives an excellent effect in many diseases, is contraindicated in diabetes mellitus. With caution, you should drink it and those who suffer from gout or kidney disease, as well as allergies: in the latter case, an allergic reaction to one of its components is possible.