The Power of Chai: Tap Into the Goodness of This Ancient Beverage

Chai, often referred to as masala chai, holds a prominent place in Indian culture. According to Chai House, its origins reach back millennia, where it intertwines with the Ayurvedic practice of using "masala," a spice blend, for its refreshing and medicinal properties.

This masala has evolved, incorporating warming spices like ginger, cardamom, and clove. However, it wasn't until tea cultivation began in India around the 17th century that masala chai really came into its own.

Today, chai remains an integral part of Indian culture and is still enjoyed throughout the day. Its popularity continues to soar globally as well, inspiring creative adaptations like chai lattes and fusion blends.

Here are a few benefits of drinking chai that might make you want to incorporate it into part of your daily routine.

When a food or beverage is touted to have health benefits, you automatically assume it won’t taste good. (Take anti-inflammatory smoothies, for example.)

Happily, that’s not the case when it comes to chai. The brew has done a superb job of masking its healthy goodness behind a delectable flavor. You’ll probably give up your morning coffee to drink more of it.

Tea purveyor Madura claims chai is rich in antioxidants that help boost the immune system and protect against illnesses. Combining spices like ginger, cardamom, and clove in chai provides antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an effective natural remedy for fighting infections and boosting overall health.

Certain spices used in chai, like cinnamon and cardamom, have been linked to heart health benefits. According to Outside, regular consumption of this tea can contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system. It can also improve blood circulation, help lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels.

Incorporating chai into your routine may benefit those looking to support healthy blood sugar management. Per Healthline, cinnamon, a key spice in masala chai, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Chai is known for its soothing properties, and Livestrong says it can be especially beneficial in relieving nausea. The combination of ginger and other spices in this tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for nausea.

Ginger, in particular, has been shown to have anti-nausea properties and can help calm the digestive system. So, the next time you're feeling queasy, a cup of chai may be just what you need to find some relief.

Chai's black tea and spice blend may offer some cognitive benefits, too. WebMD says stimulating compounds like cinnamon, caffeine, and L-theanine can improve attention, memory, and focus.