While chai is not a natural inclusion in tea research, it is considered to be a rich source of health benefits, thanks to the spices and herbs it uses. The therapeutic properties of these spices and herbs are considered to be passed on to the chai.
Chai is made from the decoction of a strong black tea (orthodox or CTC) that’s simmered with sweetened milk. A popular choice of spices and herbs added to chai are cardamom, cinnamon, clove, saffron, ginger, lemongrass, mint and fennel seeds. Spices are inherently therapeutic and their addition to the chai helps impart some of these qualities to the brew itself.
Benefits from the addition of spices
If one has to understand the health benefits of chai tea it is important to first take apart the chai tea ingredients that go into making a cup of chai – tea leaves, milk, sweetener, and chai tea spices. Each of these ingredients has its own merits and imparts the same into a cup of chai.
Ginger: In herbal medicine, ginger is regarded as an excellent remedy for gastrointestinal issues. Modern scientific research has revealed that ginger possesses numerous therapeutic properties and its antioxidant properties and direct anti-inflammatory effects have been proven true.
Cardamom: A popular Indian spice, cardamom is widely used for treating digestive distress, intestinal spasms, constipation, liver and gallbladder illnesses, as well as loss of appetite. It is also used for treating common cold, cough, bronchitis, bad breath and a sore throat.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been known to have anti-inflammatory properties and is also considered to be a potent antioxidant. Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help reduce blood sugar levels in diabetic people.
Nutmeg: Nutmeg is highly regarded for having aromatic, aphrodisiac, and curative properties. Active compounds in nutmeg are known for their therapeutic applications, including, being anti-fungal, anti-depressant, an aphrodisiac, and even an anti-flatulent.
Fennel: Health benefits from fennel include relief from indigestion, constipation, colic, diarrhea, respiratory disorders, menstrual disorders, and anemia.
Does Chai Tea Have Caffeine?
If you’re worried about your caffeine intake and are wondering; “is chai tea good for you?” then you should know that since chai tea is made from black tea, 1 cup of chai tea contains the same amount of caffeine as in a cup of black tea, which is 50 milligrams.
If you love chai and are looking for reasons to state why everyone should drink chai tea, here are a few reasons why.
What is Chai Tea good for?
Apart from being a perfect evening beverage on a cold winter evening and having great antioxidant properties, chai tea’s benefits also include improving digestion, enhancing the immune system, and fighting inflammation.
Chai tea benefits the skin too. Chai tea can help benefit your skin if mixed with the right spices. Chai tea made with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, cloves, and black pepper helps stimulate circulation, blood flow to the skin giving it a healthy glow.
Is chai tea good for weight loss?
“Is chai tea good for you to lose weight?” a question all tea lovers would love the answer. Well, you’ll be glad to know that not only is Chai tea a delicious, low-calorie drink, but the spices in Chai Tea can actually break down fat and help in weight loss.
Is Chai tea good for your stomach?
Chai tea spices like ginger and clove can help settle the stomach and improve digestion.
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