Kombucha is the Western name for sweetened tea or tisane that has been fermented using a macroscopic solid mass of microorganisms called a “kombucha colony”.
Communi-Tea Kombucha is sold in earth-friendly reusable bottles. Photo copyright 2009 by Zachary D. Lyons.
The recorded history of this drink dates back to the Qin Dynasty in China (around 250 BC). The Chinese called it the “Immortal Health Elixir,” because they believed Kombucha balanced the Middle Qi (Spleen and Stomach) and aided in digestion, allowing the body to focus on healing. Knowledge of kombucha eventually reached Russia and then Eastern Europe around the Early Modern Age, when tea first became affordable to the populace. (For more information on the history of kombucha and more, go to Wikipedia.)
Communi-Tea Kobucha comes to the Market by bicycle power. Photo copyright 2009 by Zachary D. Lyons.
Communi-Tea has Washington’s first WSDA-licensed kombucha facility. The reuse their bottles and use an electrically-assisted bicycle trailer for hauling and deliveries.
Tags: Ballard, beverage, farmers market, food, kombucha, medicinal, Seattle, vendor
February 14, 2010 at 4:55 pm
[…] and wholeheartedly interested in their neighbors and community. I had a great conversation with a Kombucha maker, Chris Joyner. I asked him if there was another way to grow kombucha besides on sugar and he […]
May 27, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Chris, thanks for the offer! I will come by the Farmer’s Market this Sunday, May 31. Only if it’s convenient for you, I’d love to take you up on your offer. Thanks!
May 4, 2009 at 4:18 pm
I make Communi-Tea Kombucha and can bring one [starter] for you to the next market at Ballard (or Columbia City). If you let me know you will be coming, I can “earmark” one for you.
— Chris
[contact Chris via http://communitea-kombucha.com%5D
April 30, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Is there a place in the Seattle area where I could get Kombucha starter? Thanks for any info you have.