The origins of kombucha go back at least 2,000 years to ancient China where it was known by such names as the “Immortal Health Elixir”, the “Tea of Immortality” and even “Stomach Treasure” – the later name probably came about due to the large amount of probiotic organisms in kombucha that are known to promote a healthy stomach and digestive tract. Legends abound regarding the origins of kombucha – one story claims that a Korean doctor presented kombucha to the Japanese Emperor Inyoko in 414AD and the Samurai warriors of ancient Japan would drink it for energy prior to battle. From Asia, Kombucha traveled the Silk Road to Russia and Europe and was known as “grib” and “tea kvass” in 19th century Ukraine and Russia. In the 1960’s, Swiss research confirmed the health benefits of drinking kombucha, providing another boost to its popularity – in modern times kombucha is enjoyed all around the planet.