Chai tea is a hot beverage that has gained popularity since about 1990, though its roots can be found between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago in Eastern culture. Chai tea has a sweet and rich taste. Those who risk developing health complications due to caffeine consumption should be advised that chai tea does contain caffeine. If you have concerns about caffeine consumption and your health, speak to your doctor.
History
Chai tea, or masala tea, is a drink that was originally made for royalty in India, where spices were sun-dried and ground by hand into a finer substance. The spice mixture was then simmered for about an hour before being served. Chai tea has seen a slow evolution since its creation nearly 2,500 years ago. Chai tea in Western culture is a spiced and sweetened black tea that can be found in many drink shops and cafes, or made from raw ingredients at home.
Description
Chai tea is made from combining brewed black tea, milk and a sweetener, such as sugar or honey, and then seasoned with any variety of spices including cinnamon, ginger and cloves, according to Mahalo.
Caffeine Content in Chai Tea
One 4-ounce cup of chai tea holds 40 mg of caffeine. According to Energy Fiend, one 8-ounce cup of Tazo chai contains 47 mg of caffeine, or about 6 mg of caffeine per ounce. Chai tea may be used with a decaffeinated black tea base, but these beverages usually contain small amounts of caffeine as well. According to Mayo Clinic, one cup of generic coffee may contain between 27 and 173 mg of caffeine, so chai tea may be an alternative for individuals who want to reduce their caffeine intake.
Types
Chai tea is typically made with a black tea base. However, green tea, which has a lower content of caffeine than black tea, can also be used, according to Chai Direct. Along with masala chai, milk chai and chimney chai are common types of chai tea.
Considerations
Consuming caffeine may cause health problems, according to Mayo Clinic. Caffeine comes in many drinks, but it can also be found in other food products, including some candies and over-the-counter drugs, causing you to consume more caffeine on a daily basis than you originally may have realized. If you suffer from headaches, restlessness, insomnia, shakiness or anxiety, caffeine my aggravate your condition. Mayo Clinic advises that you should consume no more than 500 to 600 mg of caffeine daily.
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