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 colours 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 the world of mycology.
If you have an eye for mushrooms, you might have noticed that in our brand logo, we illustrate Amanita Kombucha with
- An Egyptian ankh symbol appears from the mushroom cap, representing immortality and vitality, connecting to its ringed stem body and volva.
- The ring of the mushroom is portrayed as a lotus, which signifies Mother Nature, purity, and strength.
- The volva is depicted as a flame, symbolising the passion and light that fuel our craft and source.
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 rooted in humility. Our philosophy is founded on the principle that true quality stems from listening, continuous learning, refinement, and ongoing growth. We see ourselves as part of a larger tradition of artistry, where every creation reflects our dedication, respect for nature, and commitment to our community. Humility inspires us to uphold integrity, as we understand that our strength lies in our guiding values.
The Journey
At Amanita Kombucha, our mission transcends simply crafting a beverage. We are sharing a piece of tradition, art, love, and the spirit of craftsmanship. As you savour each bottle of kombucha, we hope you find inspiration in the stories and meanings behind our brand. We wish for you to experience the joy of discovering the stories and beauty in the synchronicities that accompany each taste of our creations, and to feel the love that we put into every one.
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 Yang
Founder and Craftsmaker