Application of Kombucha Fermentation Broth for Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Processes

Treatment for sepsis and its complications in the clinic is primarily in the forms of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antioxidant drugs. Kombucha, a traditional fermented beverage rich in tea polyphenols and organic acids, offers several benefits including bacteriostasis, anti-inflammation ability, and boosting the immune system. Currently, research on kombucha is primarily focused on its antibacterial and antioxidant properties; however, in-depth exploration of the involved mechanisms is lacking. Herein, turmeric, Paeoniae alba, and black tea were used as fermentation substrates to detect the bacteriostatic and antioxidant activities of the fermentation broth and evaluate its anti-inflammatory effects on RAW264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPSs). The results showed that fermentation enhanced the antibacterial activity of turmeric against E. coli and S. aureus and that of Paeoniae alba against S. aureus. Turmeric black tea exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The fermentation broth of turmeric and turmeric black tea significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines induced by LPSs. Our results showed that using turmeric and Paeoniae alba culture media as substrates can enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of fermentation broth and provide a new strategy for developing anti-inflammatory substances.

Automated summary

The traditional fermented beverage kombucha, rich in tea polyphenols and organic acids, has bacteriostasis, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting abilities. This study investigated the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of fermentation broth using turmeric, Paeoniae alba, and black tea as substrates. The results showed enhanced antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus with turmeric fermentation, and against S. aureus with Paeoniae alba fermentation. Turmeric black tea exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The fermentation broth of turmeric and turmeric black tea significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines induced by LPSs.