FAQ's

We are here to best answer any questions you may have regarding our products or about Kombucha in general. Although we cannnot address your specific health concerns, we do love and believe in the products we make and the restorative and rejuvenating properties they hold.

What is the history of Kombucha?

There are many different stories of the origin of Kombucha. Some believe that when an ancient Siberian culture could no longer afford tea, they looked to the forest for alternatives. What the birch tree offered has become the legendary elixir most commonly known as Kombucha. Please stay tuned for an in-depth look at the many different origin stories around Kombucha.

Why should I drink Kombucha?

Because you want a low sugar, organic energizing drink alternative. Also, because it can help restore balance to the microflora in your digestive system, boost your immune system, and provide amino acids and vitamins .

What kind of tea do you use?

We use a blend of organic green and black teas to balance the high nutrient content needs of the developing Kombucha culture, with our needs for antioxidant benefits.

We buy our tea down the street from the Stone Leaf Tea House in Middlebury, Vermont. Stone Leaf Tea carries only Fair Trade teas and is why Aqua Vitea is proud to support John as he develops direct trade relationships with tea growers in Asia and around the globe.

Why is sugar used?

Sugar is a key component to any fermentation. For Kombucha, sugar fuels the yeast cells as they convert it into food for the beneficial bacteria. By the end of the fermentation there is very little sugar remaining, as you can taste in its pungent flavor. We use organic evaporated cane juice from Argentina, while we continue doing trials with local sugar sources like honey and beet sugar.

Is there Caffeine?

Caffeine is one of the nutrients that feeds the yeast and bacteria and is mostly dissipated by the end of the fermentation. There is some residual caffeine (comparable to decaf tea), so people with caffeine sensitivities might want to "test the waters" or avoid drinking Kombucha.

When is it best to drink?

You can drink Kombucha anytime of day or night. The Kombucha can have different affects on the body depending on when it is drunk. Drink it before a workout for endurance or after for recovery. When consumed around meals it can aid in digestion and absorption. Most folks prefer drinking Kombucha before evening, as it can be a strong mental stimulant (beneficial if you are pulling an "all nighter"). Listen to your body.

When we say "RAW" it means that the Kombucha is uncooked, unprocessed and unpasteurized. Kombucha is a true "Raw" food created by nature.

Is it safe if it is unpasteurized?

Yes. Fermented foods, like Kombucha, eliminate harmful bacterial growth and increase shelf life, which are the primary goals of pasteurizing. Kombucha has an acidic pH that is unsuitable for harmful bacteria, thus, is safe to drink unpasteurized.

What are the "floating things" at the bottom of my bottle?

The "floaties" are the solid form of Kombucha. They are the living elements of the Kombucha culture present in every bottle and reflect the strength and vitality of Aqua Vitea Kombucha "the tea water of life".

When it comes time to drink the floaties
you have to be in the mood
but if your not feeling up to it
mix them in with your dog's food

Seriously, we hear from many people that their dogs have had full recoveries from illness due to eating Kombucha cultures. It is all anecdotal, however, and should be taken with a grain of salt.

Do I shake up my kombucha to get rid of the "floating things"?

Shake at your own risk. Remember that Kombucha is a living food and under carbonated pressure so always be mindful to keep your bottle upright. If not, it can become very active and overflow.

Can I drink Kombucha if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Many pregnant and breastfeeding women have sung praises at how Kombucha has given them energy, and has been helpful with relieving nausea. However we recommend that you consult your naturopathic physician or allopathic doctor before consuming our product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Has research been done that supports the health claims about Kombucha?

There is more widely available research about Kombucha in Europe and Asia than in the United States of aggressive Pharmaceutical Companies. One of the Kombucha pioneers in Europe was Gunther Frank. His book "Kombucha: Healthy Beverage and Natural Remedy from the Far East, Its Correct Preparation and Use", should be a mainstay for any Kombucha enthusiast.
Also, look into the research done by Dr. Rudolf Sklenar of Oberhessen who used Kombucha to treat a wide array of illnesses.

If your questions are not answered in our FAQ's please feel free to contact us at info@AquaVitea.com