Heavenly spice tea - The Masala Chai

In India, black tea is always drunk with milk. One might think that this habit has English origins from colonial times. However, the source of the delicious spiced tea is purely Indian. Back then, the Indians noticed that the tannins in black tea had negative effects on the stomach. They decided to mix the tea with milk to weaken the tannins it contained. With the addition of spices, masala chai was born. 

But... what is it? The term “chai” simply stands for tea - unlike in India! There, “chai” is primarily a delicious creation made from black tea and 4 spices, such as cardamom, ginger, fennel, cloves and cinnamon - which is enjoyed with milk and sugar or honey. The taste is an excellent and varied blend ranging from sweet to hot and spicy. The addition of milk gives the taste a sweet, creamy note. All the receptors of the tongue are challenged - you experience a true taste explosion.

The Masala Chai

Is masala chai good for your health

Masala chai has its origins in traditional Ayurvedic health science, in which its spices have had a firm place for decades. Ayurveda is the “science of life”.

The spice tea contains a variety of health and nutrition-promoting ingredients, such as strengthening the immune system, stimulating the appetite and promoting blood circulation. Accordingly, masala chai has a beneficial effect on body and mind.
Not to be contradicted is the caffeine it contains, which invigorates but does not excite.
According to Indian health teachings, masala chai triggers new life energies, which lead to an increase in joie de vivre. 

But what is the effect of all the spices it contains? 

• Cardamom aids digestion, calms the stomach and strengthens the immune system Ginger has an antibacterial effect, strengthens the immune system, stimulates the appetite and digestion. Ginger can also counteract nausea and pain. 
• Aniseed and fennel help against cramps and flatulence, among other things.
• Cloves are rich in antioxidants and thus reduce cell ageing. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
• Cinnamon has a disinfectant effect and promotes blood circulation.