Analysis of Scientific Production on the Effects of Consumption of Kombucha and Rooibos Tea in Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients
Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of consumption of kombucha and rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis) in patients with Diabetes Mellitus and hypertension, in order to identify the possible benefits of these beverages as complementary strategies in the control of blood glucose and blood pressure. Theoretical Framework: In this topic, the main concepts and theories that underlie the research are presented. We highlight the knowledge about chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and hypertension, in addition to the importance of functional nutrition in the prevention and control of these diseases. The bioactive compounds present in kombucha (organic acids, polyphenols, probiotics) and rooibos tea (aspalatine, flavonoids), which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are also discussed. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a systematic review of the literature, with a qualitative and descriptive approach. Clinical studies, controlled and randomized trials, observational studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyzes were included. Data collection was performed in the databases Capes Journal Portal, Science Direct, Virtual Health Library (VHL), Open Knowledge Maps, Connected Papers and Consensus, using descriptors in Portuguese, English and Spanish, from 2015 to 2025. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed a greater number of studies involving kombucha, especially in glycemic control. On the other hand, rooibos tea presented more limited evidence, although with promising results for the control of blood pressure. In the discussion, the findings are contextualized with the theoretical framework, indicating the complementary therapeutic potential of these beverages. Limitations such as the scarcity of robust clinical trials are pointed out, suggesting the need for further studies. Implications of the Research: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of Nutrition and Public Health. These implications may include the formulation of food education strategies, the introduction of functional beverages to support the treatment of chronic diseases, and encourage new clinical trials focusing on herbal medicine and functional foods. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by addressing, in a pioneering way, the combined effects of kombucha and rooibos tea in diabetic and hypertensive patients, using a systematic and updated approach. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the potential to offer complementary and accessible alternatives in the care of chronic non-communicable diseases, promoting an integrative vision between food practices and health.
Authors
- Débora Fernandes Pinheiro (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5413-8994)
- Carolina Azeredo Silva (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-9137-4764)
- Eliana Rezende Adami (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3358-0550)
- Solange de Bortoli Beal (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1739-2790)
- Grégori de Souza (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9995-3124)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental
- Published
- 2025-05-26
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.24857/rgsa.v19n5-086
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Tea Polyphenols and Effects
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 1.47