What is the kombucha origin? The beverage that is so delicious is growing its popularity, an issue that is frequently asked by those who wish to learn more about this drink and the delightful benefits it offers.
Where was Kombucha first discovered? Kombucha is a product of Northeast China (referenced historically as Manchuria) about 220 B.C. The name derives from the Korean doctor Dr. Kombu, who brought tea to Japan and then presented Kombucha to Emperor Japan. Kombucha’s history is extensive and fascinating. It’s also interesting with increasing popularity in China through the United States.
Please find more information about this refreshing beverage and its kombucha roots below!
Is Kombucha Chinese or Japanese?
Many people need clarification about the kombucha origin by referring to the information we provided earlier. The confusion is compounded because Kombucha is Japanese and translates to “kelp tea.” Even more intriguing? Japan calls the kombucha “kocha kinoko.” Let’s go back to Kombucha’s history from its origin below to discover more.
In China, Kombucha’s origin country, Kombucha, is often called “hong cha jun.” In English, this means “black tea mushroom.” However, today’s Kombucha doesn’t taste like mushrooms.
Kombucha originates from China, but it has an ancient history in Japan as long as Dr. Kombu introduced it into the home of Japanese Emperor Inkyo many centuries ago to show its healing abilities.
Kombucha in Russia
In Russia, Kombucha was first identified in a scientific study in 1913 by the researcher A.A. Bachinskaya. (ref) The Russian biologist has studied the cultures of different regions of Russia. In her essay, she also described the features of the Kombucha SCOBY.
Many people later consumed Kombucha as a health drink. It was known as “Chainyi grab,” meaning “tea mushroom,” or affectionately “gribok,” “little mushroom.”
The Russians were known to drink various fermented drinks, referred to as “kvass.” Kombucha was also known as “tea Kvass.”. “
At the same time, German professor G. Lindau released an article about the consumption of Kombucha in Russia. The report was focused on the health benefits of Kombucha.
Lindau’s piece states that Kombucha can be known as a “Japanese mushroom.” This means that Kombucha originated in Asia!
Kombucha In The West
Later, at the beginning of the 20th century, Kombucha gained popularity throughout Russia and Europe. It was widely used in Russia and Germany to treat ailments and assist soldiers injured during World War I.
In the following years, World War II hit, and the rations created a problem finding sugar as a vital ingredient for fermentation. That meant that the kombucha drink was virtually impossible to locate. Kombucha is created by brewing green tea using raw sugar from cane before mixing it with the essential Kombucha Culture (or SCOBY) and fermenting to reduce sugar to organic acids. Prebiotics as well as probiotic bacteria.
After the war had ended, there was a slight revival in the rise of Kombucha. In the sixties of the 1960s, especially in California, households would make Kombucha, then pass the SCOBY on to their friends to make their tea, which is how it earned the name “groovy tea” way back then!
What Countries Drink Kombucha Now?
Alongside China, in addition to China, Japan Kombucha has also become a trendy beverage across the globe over the past few years. Other countries that are known to indulge in delicious Kombucha include:
- South Korea
- Russia
- United States
- England
- Eastern Europe
The Popularity Of Kombucha Today
Kombucha is currently experiencing a revival and continues to increase in popularity as well as sales in the industry of beverages. A variety of Kombuchas (including that we have!) is now available in restaurants, supermarkets, and health stores. Kombucha’s explosion in popularity is part of a broader sea-change in attitude towards what we put into our bodies, coupled with a growing interest in fermented foods.