KOMBUCHA 101
ft. Greg the Germ
Disclaimer
Kombucha must be chilled before drinking.
No shaking.

What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is a fermented tea believed to have originated in China around 220BC. To craft Kombucha, a base of sweetened tea is cultured with a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast). Over time, the SCOBY transforms the tea into a tangy, naturally bubbly drink with billions of living probiotics to support gut health and promote overall wellbeing.
What are the health benefits of Kombucha?
Authentically fermented Kombucha naturally yields living probiotics, electrolytes, acetic acids, and active enzymes. Kombucha is known to support gut health & aid digestion, promote overall wellbeing, provide immune support, and improve vitality.
Research shows that drinking kombucha has been associated with positive health effects, like reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure, the reduction of cancer propagation, and improving the immune system, liver, and gastrointestinal functions. As reported by this scientific study, drinking fermented beverages like kombucha can also contribute to positive mental health.
Analysis from Harvard Medical School shows that probiotics can aid digestion and help maintain gut health. According to Healthline, adaptogens have been shown to help people with cardiovascular health and certain neurological disorders, especially ones that may happen more frequently as individuals age.
The Mayo Clinic reports that antioxidants (like those found in our kombucha) are substances that may protect your cells against the effects of free radicals — molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.
How often should I drink Kombucha?
If you're new to kombucha, we suggest beginning with about 4 ounces and then gradually increase your intake to 16 ounces or more per day to enjoy the full benefits of a daily diet rich in probiotics. All of our bodies are different though, so we suggest experimenting and seeing what works best for you!
How is Virgin Leaf Kombucha made?
Our kombucha is cultured, brewed, and bottled right here on St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. We use only organic ingredients in our brewing process. We strive to source all of our ingredients locally here on island, with the exception of our tea, which comes directly from our head of brewing's homeland in China.
How should I store Kombucha?
Our kombucha is a raw food containing billions of living probiotics so it should ALWAYS be kept chilled in a refrigerator between 33-37 F°. Bottles should be stored upright and never on their side. For the best quality and experience, we suggest consuming no more than 3 days after opening.
Is there alcohol in Kombucha?
Alcohol is a natural byproduct of fermentation and can be found in all fermented foods, like miso, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. This alcohol is very beneficial, as it provides a natural form of food preservation – Nature’s self-defense against contamination and bacteria.
We use a proprietary brewing process to ensure a low alcohol content in our kombucha, and test each batch to confirm our alcohol levels are well below the 0.5% specified by the TTB. If you have a sensitivity to alcohol for personal, religious, or dietetic reasons, we recommend abstaining from drinking Kombucha.
Is Virgin Leaf Kombucha vegan?
Yes!