Trust your Gut
Join us as we delve into the world of Kombucha with Hebe Ibbotson, Kombucha Engineer and founder of BooChaCha. From homebrew to high-demand, we discuss the art and science behind her successful business.
Can you give us an introduction to BooChaCha?
At BooChaCha, we believe in the transformative power of Kombucha. This natural and fermented tonic is not only delicious, but it also brings numerous health benefits to those who enjoy it. That's why we've dedicated our brand to the art of Kombucha home-brewing.
We offer a range of products and services, from luxury and basic home-brewing kits, to Kombucha workshops and mix-up parties. Whether you want to purchase our products online for UK delivery or attend an in-person event locally, we've got you covered. Our events can be tailored to fit a variety of occasions, from retreat days and wellness events, to birthday parties and hen dos.
In addition to our in-person events, we also collaborate with cafés, bars, and gyms across the UK to offer tailored events for clients and participate in corporate events. Our passion for Kombucha stems from a personal health journey and we're dedicated to sharing our knowledge with others. That's why we're studying to become a gut-health practitioner, to deepen our understanding and offer valuable insights during our workshops. While we won't be qualified to provide medical advice or diagnoses, our goal is to help people make simple and realistic changes to their day-to-day lives that could improve their gut health and overall wellness.
What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has been enjoyed for its health benefits for over 2,000 years. It's made with just sweet tea and a live fermentation culture called a SCOBY, which is a symbiotic culture of bacterial yeasts. This ancient health tonic is known for its detoxing properties, vitamin and mineral content, and probiotics, which are great for gut health. As research continues to uncover the link between gut health and our overall wellbeing, Kombucha's potential impact on mood, weight, and more is fascinating.
Homebrewed Kombucha can taste different than store-bought versions, which are often more fizzy. The homebrewed type is typically less fizzy and has a purer taste, so only a small amount of 50-150 ml a day is needed to feel the benefits. It's like a mixture of apple cider vinegar and lemonade, with a lightly effervescent texture and a unique balance between tartness and sweetness.
With a growing interest in the connection between gut health and mental health, I am studying to become a gut health practitioner, which will add value to my workshops and allow me to help people make simple and realistic changes to their day-to-day lives. I'm also passionate about exploring Kombucha's potential for balancing blood glucose spikes.
We’d love to know your story. What inspired you to make Kombucha?
I've always struggled with my digestive health, going through food intolerances, IBS-like symptoms, and hormonal bloating cycles, yet never receiving a clear diagnosis. After working as a mechanical engineer for five years post-university, I took a career break and travelled to Asia, Central America, Mexico, and eventually ended up in a remote village in Japan where I discovered home-brewed Kombucha. This fermented tea transformed my gut health, and I became addicted to it.
Upon my return to the UK in 2020, I started a Kombucha brewing of my own and went back to engineering. However, with the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, I was soon made redundant.
Some friends asked me to set up Kombucha brews for them, and that's when the idea for BooChaCha, a Kombucha brand, hit me like a bolt from the blue. I purchased the name on Companies House and started a side hustle while also working part-time as an engineer.
Starting a side hustle has been the most rewarding experience, and I've learned so much about myself. I never thought I'd start a business, but after seeing how far things have come in the first year, I'm excited to see where it will take me in the next five.
Website → boochacha.co.uk
Instagram → @boo.cha.cha
