Chai tea, or “Masala Chai” as it is often called in Hindi, is a timeless beverage from the Indian Subcontinent. Since antiquity, this rich & seductive drink has been enjoyed for its delicious taste and healing properties. Perhaps you have enjoyed a Chai Latte from Starbucks, or an iced Chai drink from Oregon Chai…but what is Chai?
In general, Chai is made by brewing black or green tea leaves with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices and herbs. In India, Masala Chai is more of a medicinal, Ayurvedic mixture than the sugared-up, frothed up, recreational beverage of the western world. In fact, the name “Chai” is a generic word for tea in Hindi, and it may be used to name any tea with one or all of the prominent Indian spices and herbs.
The most common spices in Chai are cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, star anise, peppercorn, and clove. Other variations may exclude anise and pepper, or add nutmeg and licorice. The spices and herbs are brewed with black or green tea leaves, and mixed with milk & honey (or soy products, and other sweeteners).
Chai Benefits:
- provides a calm, alert, focused mental state
- acts as a natural stress remedy
- enhances one’s weight loss regimen
- acts as a natural diuretic
- aids in healthy digestion & circulation
Pick up a Chai Tea sampler at Earth lore! It is a simple, delicious way to stay fit and healthy.