Chai tea is a classic Indian beverage that has been used for centuries. It is created by mixing black, green or oolong tea with a variety of herbs and spices. Chai tea is recognized as a healthier alternative to coffee for several reasons. The tea component is rich in antioxidants, the spices have been used for centuries to promote health and well being, and it is much lower in caffeine content than coffee. Each spice that is used in the chai tea creation brings it own group of health benefits.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a classic spice component used in chai tea. It contains numerous health benefits such as reducing blood pressure and reducing fevers and body aches due to common cold and flu. Cinnamon also is effective in relieving several digestive issues such as indigestion, nausea, gas, and heartburn. According to Chai-tea.org, cinnamon helps increase circulation, reduce fatigue, and increase attentiveness and energy. It also regulates blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol levels with diabetes.
Cardamom
Cardamom is also a commonly used spice in chai tea. According to Chai-tea.org, cardamom is beneficial to the kidneys, lungs, and heart. It is also contains mood stabilizer properties. According to Food and Beverage, cardamom is used to aid digestive problems and stimulates metabolism. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce spasms in the muscles. Cardamom is also beneficial in treating respiratory spasms from asthma. According to wonder of tea, cardamom is useful in fighting common colds and chills.
Cloves
Cloves are also commonly used in the creation of chai tea. According to Wonder of Tea, cloves have antiseptic properties that boost the immune system and help the body to fight infection. It also has been proven to soothe toothaches and combat bad breath. Cloves are also proven to benefit digestive disorders such as diarrhea.
Ginger
Ginger is also a common component of chai tea. According to Food and Beverage Directory, ginger is beneficial in treating indigestion, diarrhea, heart disease, and arthritis. It also contains properties that will lower the risk of colon cancer. Ginger also contains properties that improves the circulatory system, the immune system, as well as, an effective treatment for motion sickness and impotence. According to wonder of tea, ginger chai tea has warming properties that aids in fighting colds and flu.
Nutmeg
Some creators of chai tea will incorporate nutmeg. Nutmeg chai tea is beneficial in assisting the digestion of heavy foods and fatty foods. Nutmeg also has proven beneficial in alleviating pain due to sciatica (pain or tingling in the legs). In addition, nutmeg has also been used to treat ailments of the kidneys and lymphatic system.
Black Pepper
Many chai tea recipes also contain black pepper. Black pepper is beneficial is reducing the symptoms of a chronic common cold, especially in the winter months. Black pepper will also promote sweating, which can cool down the body and helps breaks a fever. It also arouses the taste buds and improves digestion and reduces gas.
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