Indian Masala Chai was traditionally consumed to warm and support digestive function and improve circulation. This aromatic blend of high-grade organic Ceylon black tea and hand-ground herbs and spices retains these restorative, therapeutic properties in a deliciously sweet and spicy brew.
Ingredients:
Black tea / cinnamon / ginger / cardamon / clove / black pepper
Therapeutic benefit:
Black tea (Camellia Sinensis) has many health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, supports cardiovascular health, and has been found to provide protection against cardiovascular disease and several cancers. The antioxidants in black tea are called polyphenols. Polyphenols have been found to block DNA damage associated with toxic chemicals. Alkylamine antigens are a component of black tea. These improve the function of the immune system and boosts its response to foreign antigens. The tannins in black tea also have a therapeutic effect on the gastric lining and improve digestive activity. Black tea is the base used traditionally in chai tea.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) acts systemically as a smooth muscle relaxant. It has been found to balance blood sugar levels, and, as a carminative, is warming to the intestinal tract. The volatile oils in cinnamon are antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a stimulating tonic for the digestive system. It has been found to reduce cramping, gas and nausea. Ginger has been indicated for motion sickness and morning sickness in pregnancy for hundreds of years. Ginger increases peripheral circulation which increase blood flow, helps to detoxify the body from toxins, and stimulates oxygen transport to the body’s cells. In Western Herbal Medicine it is also used as an anti-inflammatory throughout the body, and to increase immunity to prevent invasion of bacteria and viruses.
Cardamon is native to the evergreen forests of India. As well as being used in Indian cuisine, it has made it’s way into Ayurvedic medicine for its outstanding health benefits. Cardamon has been found to improve digestive and cardiovascular health. It is used to treat nausea, bloating, acidity, gas and heartburn. Cardamon’s phytonutrients act in the body as an antioxidant, helping cells resist cellular ageing.
Clove helps to induce the production and release of bile from the liver and gallbladder, which aids in digestion and detoxification. Clove can also stimulate digestion and act as a pain reliever throughout the body.
Organic black pepper (Piper nigrum) has been found to work synergistically, improving the absorption of turmeric.