Why Amanita?
People often ask me if Amanita is my name, and some understandably assume it is, calling me by that name. I don’t mind at all—it’s just that my name is actually different.
Similar to 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" due to its positive health properties, which are similar to those of mushrooms. Interestingly, kombucha produces a cellulose-like film, known as a pellicle, to protect its symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (often abbreviated as SCOBY). This byproduct is a thick, gelatinous structure that expands to the size of the fermenting vessel, resembling a mushroom cap.
The character 菌 (jùn in Chinese, kin in Japanese) is used in 茶菌 (chá jùn), which translates to "tea bacteria. Because of this visual resemblance and its health benefits, the name "tea bacteria" is a linguistic holdover where the character for fungus or mushroom was applied to kombucha.
Building on the linguistic connections explored, the term 菌 acts as a fascinating link between the modern idea of bacteria and the ancient understanding of fungi or mushrooms, reflecting historical and cultural perspectives.
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:
- A symbol of the Egyptian ankh emerges from the cap of the mushroom, representing immortality and vitality. This symbol connects to the ringed stem and the volva of the mushroom. In the time of the Pharaohs, around 3000 BC, a diamond was placed in the centre of the ankh—a cross with a loop on top. The ankh was the Egyptian hieroglyph for life, while the diamond symbolized the sun, representing power, courage, and truth.
- The ring of the mushroom is depicted as a lotus, symbolizing Mother Nature, purity, and strength. The lotus rises from muddy waters, emerging untainted, which reflects moral integrity and inner strength. In Chinese literature and poetry, the lotus often symbolises resilience and perseverance, particularly during times of adversity.
- The volva is depicted as a flame, symbolizing the passion and light that fuel our craft, The Source, and the universal light.
The Meaning Behind the Name Amanita
The term 'Amanita' is an ancient Greek word, Ἀμανίτης (amanítēs), referring to 'a category of mushrooms or fungus'. I clarified this with a Greek traveller 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" and "modesty". 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 The Amanita Collective, our mission transcends simply crafting a food product. 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, Apothecary & The Ferment Station, or our humble dedication to quality, we hope that our kombucha resonates with you on your journey toward health and wellness.
Cheers to your Gut Instinct,
Sheila Yang
Founder & Craftsmaker