Chai

The word \”chai\” or “cha” is another word for “tea” in the regions where it originated from which are mostly in South Asia like in Nepal, Pakistan, India and Tibet. Commonly though, when we talk about “Chai” these days it is followed that it will be a spice tea mixed with milk and some type of sweetener depending on the local region you are in. Also for many English speakers in the old ages and outside of these regions made a synonymous connection between “Chai” and “masala chai” as is the most widely known chai today. Typically at present times, chai in Western Countries have been made as a latte drink.

Masala Chai – The commonly known version of chai is traditionally composed of spices like cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, cloves, fennel, ginger and peppercorn. These spices are usually warmed in boiling water and mixed with milk, honey and black tea, although recipes usually vary from village to village.

Ayurveda is born out of a legend that dates back 5,000 years in the courts of Siam and India. The king at that time was believed to have concocted a recipe for a beverage that could heal. And since that time, authentic chai tea has been used in alternative medicine which is known as “Ayurveda”. This is coupled with a mix of herbs spices and sweeteners to help relieve the body of minor ailments. Chai was considered to be a regenerative and cleansing drink during these times.

There are many versions of Chai tea recipes these days, however here is a sample of an authentic Chai Tea recipe:

Chai Tea Recipe

This authentic chai tea recipe serves four.

4 black peppercorns

1 stick of cinnamon

6 green cardamom pods

6 cloves

1 inch ginger root, sliced and peeled

1 tablespoon loose black tea or 2 black tea bags

3 cups water

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons sugar, preferably dark brown

Put together the spices in a saucepan with the water and bring to a boil. Cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let steep for an additional 10 minutes. Return to a boil. Remove from heat and add the tea, let steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Strain mixture and return to saucepan. Add milk and sugar and stir for one minute over low heat. Serve immediately.

Health Benefits

Chai contains high levels of antioxidants, which help the body in numerous ways like lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Some studies also have shown possible effects against Cancer. The individual spices themselves in a chai has their own healing attributes that can remedy a variety of minor ailments like the flu, stomach aches, alleviate digestive problems, and lung problems.

Black tea alone, the main ingredient in the chai tea recipe, contains the most powerful antioxidants that science knows. It can help prevent and fight many different kinds of cancer, lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. It also reduces the symptoms of Alzheimer\’s disease and are being studied for their ability to boost the immune system.

These are a whole lot of possible benefits to the body, too many for even none tea drinkers to not at least give it a thought, or better yet, give it a zip.

Author Bio: Boost your health with traditional Chai Tea. VitaNet®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Chai, Antioxidant, Ginger Root