Chai is a traditional Indian drink made from a relaxing blend of aromatic spices that are brewed or simmered with black or green tea leaves and milk. Spices and tea leaves are usually crushed and strained from the liquid after brewing. Western cafes mix chai powder with steamed milk to make chai latte.
There is no fixed recipe as each region uses different spices and preparation methods. Typically, one or more of the following spices are used: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, allspice, coriander seeds, fennel, pepper, star anise, and fresh ginger. Sugar, honey, or other sweeteners can be added during cooking, depending on taste.
In western India green tea is used instead of black tea. They tend to use more subtle flavors like almonds and saffron. Some regions also use a pinch of salt, nutmeg, licorice root, or rose petals to balance the flavor. There are many variations.
Chai tea is a healthy alternative to coffee. It contains only a third of the caffeine in coffee, and the spices are packed with antioxidants. Each spice has its own health functions according to traditional Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine and traditional Chinese medicine.
Cinnamon increases circulation, improves alertness and vitality, and reduces fatigue. Traditional medicine also uses cinnamon to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Cardamom it is a digestive aid that detoxifies the lungs, kidneys and heart. It also lifts your mood.
Cloves they are analgesic, antifungal and antiseptic.
Pepper increases blood circulation and therefore metabolism and warms up when cold. Black pepper makes you sweat more, which cools the body and reduces high fevers.
Nutmeg helps the body digest heavy foods. Traditional Arab doctors used it to treat the kidneys and lymph nodes. Nutmeg also keeps the mucous membranes in the throat moist so that phlegm can be easily dislodged.
Star anise It is used by TCM practitioners to relieve coughs and other throat problems.
Ginger Stimulates the circulatory and immune systems. It is also widely used for motion sickness. It is used to strengthen and heal the respiratory and digestive systems.
Fennel It is used in France and Germany to treat kidney problems and laryngitis. It is beneficial for the eyes.
Turmeric it is a very popular Indian spice. It is known as an anti-inflammatory, so it is good for relieving arthritic pain and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Turmeric tea also calms an upset stomach and fights diarrhea.
The next time you feel like having a coffee, have a Chai. It can be used as a general tonic for various organs in your body. If you have specific health conditions, add more than one particular spice. All spices are natural ingredients with no additives added in their processing, but if you have allergies to certain substances, it is best to consult with your doctor.
