Ancient Masala Chai Benefits: The History of India's Most Famous Health Drink

For thousands of years, people have gravitated towards the tasty and beneficial masala chai tea. The excellent masala chai benefits and its unique and delicious flavor have made it a staple in the tea drinking community. Let's dive into the deep history of ancient masala chai and its variety of benefits.

The History of Ancient Masala Chai

Masala chai, or spiced tea, is thought to have originated in northeastern India due to the region's availability of spices, like ginger and black pepper, gets used in modern chai recipes. Back then, it was merely a mix of hot water, and whatever spices were available.

The herbs were already considered beneficial, so the teas helped ease specific ailments.

While the exact origination date is unknown, several legends mention ancient Indian kings or traveling Chinese Buddhists concocting teas using Camellia Sinensis tea leaves and spices.

The British East India Company promoted modern chai as they ruled India for a while and aimed to overtake the tea market. They cultivated the modern recipe for masala chai, and other types of tea, within areas of India. With the help of advertising and availability in India, masala chai became a trendy recreational beverage.

With the wide availability of spices, tea, and milk, plus its health benefits and low cost, the tea managed to gain popularity around the world. Today, chai tea remains popular and accessible.

Since it's been around for so long, many families have their personalized recipe. But the main masala chai ingredients include black tea, aromatic spices, and milk. Spices range from cardamom and ginger to cinnamon and black pepper.

Masala Chai Benefits

Masala chai boasts a variety of health and wellness benefits. These benefits are celebrated in Indian culture and worldwide.

Boosts Energy

Masala chai's naturally occurring caffeine help boost your energy. Black tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, which helps you maintain an elevated energy level to get you through your day.

Alleviates Aches and Pains

Cloves alleviate inflammation and minor aches and pains due to their antiseptic properties. This spice also helps your body create insulin and influence blood sugar levels.

Reduces Nausea and Maintains Healthy Digestion

Ginger root, which is commonly brewed in chai tea, is a well-known digestion aid. This spice also alleviates nausea symptoms, so it's a great drink to consume when your stomach feels upset.

Influences Immune System Health

Cardamon, a rich vitamin C source, is a common ingredient in a typical masala chai recipe. Black cardamon is also considered a natural antiseptic like cloves. By combining the two ingredients, you're creating a potent chai drink that effortlessly influences a healthy immune system.

Reduces Blood Pressure

Cinnamon helps support blood circulation and maintains low LDL cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol. Cinnamon also contains powerful antioxidants that help fight against toxins and pollutants in your body.

Choose Chai

Now that you know the incredible masala chai benefits and history, it's the perfect time to incorporate it into your daily routine. It's health and wellness benefits make masala chai an all-around great beverage.

Are you new to chai and don't know where to start? We offer an authentic Indian masala chai that's sure to add wellness and energy to your day.