If you are new to brewing kombucha, you might be wondering what tea is best for fermenting kombucha. The tea you choose to use directly impacts not only the flavour of your kombucha tea and health benefits,  but also the health of your kombucha SCOBY. It is important to use teas that contain camellia sinensis (from tea plants) for fermenting your kombucha as it provides crucial nutrients nutrients that support the fermentation process and the health of the SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast).

Why Tea Matters in Kombucha Brewing

Kombucha is a fermented drink made by combining tea, sugar, and a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast). The type of tea you use is crucial, as it provides the necessary nutrients for the SCOBY to thrive. The fermentation process transforms the sugars into beneficial acids, probiotics, and enzymes, but it all starts with your tea choice.

Best Types of Tea for Kombucha

Like most things, the better the quality you start with, the better the end result. Here are the most commonly used teas for brewing kombucha and what makes each one special:

1. Black Tea is often used in traditional kombucha brewing. It provides a strong, full bodied flavoured kombucha which balances well with the tangy taste of fermented kombucha tea. Black tea also contains high levels of nutrients, including nitrogen, which supports the growth and health of the SCOBY. Various black teas can be used, but the most popular teas tend to be English Breakfast, Darjeeling and Assam. 

2. Green Tea offers a lighter and more delicate kombucha. Green tea has a mild flavour which offers a more delicate kombucha tea than the black kombucha tea. Green tea is known for being rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, making it an excellent choice for those seeking health benefits in every sip. Green tea ferments well but is slightly less robust than black tea, so expect a subtler taste. Popular green teas include Sencha, Dragonwell, and Matcha (although loose-leaf or bagged teas work best).

3. White Tea can also be use to ferment kombucha. It offers a subtle but floral flavour. White tea is great for making subtle kombuchas with a subtle sweetness. It also offers a lighter kombucha as it is the least processed of all teas. It has lower caffeine levels, and results in a crisp brew that appeals to people who prefer a softer drink. Popular white teas include Silver Needle and Bai Mudan. 

4. Oolong Tea tends to sit in between black and green tea for its complex flavours and balance. It can provide both fruity and earthy flavour profiles. Oolong tea is a good option for those who are looking for a more complex kombucha flavour without the heaviness of black tea. Popular oolong teas include Tieguanyin and Wuyi Rock tea. 

Can You Use Herbal Teas for Kombucha?

While herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus are tempting, they cannot be used alone for kombucha brewing. Herbal teas lack the essential nutrients (particularly nitrogen) that the SCOBY needs to ferment properly. However, you can mix small amounts of herbal tea with black or green tea to add flavor variety. Be cautious, as herbs with oils or strong flavors can interfere with the SCOBY's health. If you are wanting to use herbal tea, it is recommended that you rather place those flavoring ingredients in your second stage fermentation. This will then not interfere with your SCOBY’s health and you can still achieve those flavours. 

Can I use fruit teas in my kombucha?

Fruit teas are better suited to using as an infusion during your second stage fermentation. Most fruit teas do not contain the correct nutrients for you SCOBY to use in the first stage ferment. So it is better to use your black, green or white tea to brew your kombucha and add your fruit tea into your second stage ferment. 

Organic vs. Non-Organic Teas

Always opt for organic, loose-leaf, or high-quality tea bags for your kombucha brew. Symbiota offers organic, biodegradable black and green tea bags. These tea bags are made from plant cellulose. Non-organic teas may contain pesticides or other chemicals that can harm your SCOBY or alter the fermentation process. High-quality organic tea will provide the purest flavor and promote a healthier brew.

Can You Mix Different Teas?

Absolutely! Many kombucha brewers mix teas to create their desired flavor profile. A common combination is blending black and green tea, which offers a well-rounded brew with the robustness of black tea and the lightness of green tea. Experiment with different blends to discover your favorite kombucha flavor.

Choosing the right tea for kombucha is the foundation for a successful and flavorful brew. Whether you prefer the strength of black tea, the lightness of green or white tea, or the complexity of oolong, each option will give your kombucha a unique character. Just remember to prioritize organic, unflavored teas, and feel free to experiment with blends to find your perfect kombucha brew.