Ayurvedic Masala Chai – A Nourishing Alternative to Coffee

Benefits of Ayurvedic Masala Chai

• Rich in antioxidants

• Supports heart health

• Enhances digestion

• Provides stable energy

• Reduces inflammation

• Contributes to oral health

• Helps prevent colds and seasonal illnesses

Although Masala Chai traditionally contains black tea (and therefore some caffeine), the addition of spices, milk, and natural sweeteners softens its stimulating effect.
You may also prepare a caffeine-free version using rooibos or simply omitting tea leaves.

Please always refer to your Ayurvedic constitution or consult your practitioner for personalised recommendations.

Constitution-Specific Recommendations

Pitta

• Avoid honey and excess black pepper.

• Reduce the quantity of spices if needed.

• Prefer plant-based milk alternatives, as pittas often do not tolerate dairy well.

• A small amount of sugar helps balance the heating effect of spices.

Kapha

• Avoid cow’s milk; prefer plant-based milk or no milk.

• Honey is preferable to sugar.

• Use dry ginger powder instead of fresh ginger.

Vata

• This recipe is generally suitable if Vata is balanced.

• If there is Vata or Pitta aggravation, reduce strong spices (especially black pepper).

• If digestion is weak or there is ama (toxins), choose a lighter milk alternative.

Seasonal Adjustments

If preparing this tea during spring or summer, reduce heating spices (clove, cinnamon, pepper) and include cooling options such as fennel, coriander seeds, or mint.

Ingredients (1 cup)

• 300 ml water

• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (for Vata & Pitta)
  OR ½ tsp dry ginger powder (for Kapha)

• ⅓ tsp green cardamom seeds (from the pods)

• 2 cloves

• 3 black peppercorns

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 tbsp black tea (Assam or Ceylon)

• Sweetener of choice according to constitution (jaggery, molasses, maple syrup, honey, raw cane sugar)

• Milk of your choice (almond, rice, cow’s, goat, etc.)

Recipe

1. Lightly crush all the spices in a mortar and pestle.

2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

3. Add the ginger and crushed spices.

4. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

5. Add the black tea and simmer for an additional 3 minutes.

6. Turn off the heat and stir in the milk.

7. Strain into a cup and sweeten to taste.

Relax and enjoy your warming Ayurvedic chai.

Important Note

For dietary and lifestyle advice tailored to your constitution and health condition, it is best to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or physician.

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