Why Amanita?
People often ask me if Amanita is my name, and some understandably assume it is, calling me that. I don’t mind at all—it’s just that my name is actually different.
Similar to the Ling Zhi (Reishi mushroom or Ganoderma lucidum) in Chinese culture, known for its various health benefits, kombucha is often referred to as “the mushroom tea” because of its positive health properties akin to those of mushrooms. Interestingly, kombucha produces a cellulose-like film, known as a pellicle, as a by-product to protect its symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (often abbreviated as SCOBY), which resembles a mushroom cap.
The Symbolism of Amanita in Our Brand
Amanita is also a genus of mushrooms, known for its striking appearance and often toxic or hallucinogenic properties. These fungi typically have a distinctive cap that ranges from smooth to warty, often adorned with vibrant colors like red, yellow, or white. Some species, such as the infamous Amanita muscaria (fly agaric), are iconic in folklore and culture. While many Amanita species are deadly, others have medicinal or culinary uses, making them both feared and revered in mycological circles.
If you got an eye for mushrooms, you might have noticed that in our brand logo, we illustrate Amanita Kombucha with an Egyptian ankh symbol in the mushroom cap, as a symbol of immortality, connecting to its ringed stem body and volva. The ring of the mushroom is depicted as a lotus, which represents Mother Nature, purity, and strength. The volva is illustrated as a flame, symbolizing passion and light.
The Meaning Behind the Name Amanita
The term 'Amanita' is an ancient Greek word referring to 'a category of mushrooms.' I clarified this with a Greek traveler I met back in 2019, and she confirmed that this usage is still in effect today at Greek farmers' markets.
Amānitā (अमानिता) is derived from the Sanskrit word for humility. As a craftsman, brand, and business, we are deeply rooted in humility. Our ethos is based on the belief that true quality comes from listening and continuously learning. We view ourselves as part of a larger tradition of artisanship—where every creation reflects our dedication, respect for nature, and commitment to our community. Humility inspires us to uphold integrity, knowing our strength is rooted in our guiding values.
The Journey
At Amanita Kombucha, our mission goes beyond simply crafting a beverage—it’s about sharing a piece of tradition, art, and the spirit of craftsmanship. As you savor each bottle of kombucha, we hope you find inspiration in the stories and meanings behind our brand. We want you to experience joy in discovering the stories and beauty in the synchronicities that accompany every taste of our creations.
Whether it’s the connection to ancient cultures, the symbolism of Amanita Kombucha, or our humble dedication to quality, we hope that our kombucha resonates with you on your journey toward health and wellness.
Cheers, to life!
With love and light,
Sheila
Kombucha Master