Masala Chai ranked 2nd as the world’s most popular non-alcoholic beverage. 6 health secrets the steaming cup holds

Masala chai isn’t just a drink; it’s an Indian love affair! Sipping it is like unlocking a secret potion of flavor and aromatic magic. For us Indians, chai is more than a drink – it’s an emotion, a daily ritual. Whether it’s the crack of dawn, a midday break, or a late-night pick-me-up, a steaming cup of chai is our constant companion, fueling us through every moment.

And as we all know the popular food guide TastleAtlas, an encyclopedia of traditional dishes, local ingredients, and authentic restaurants from around the world has released a list of the best non-alcoholic beverages in the world and has given it a solid second place on the ‘World’s Best Non-Alcoholic Beverage‘ list. Well, if it was up to Indians, it would probably be ranked number 1.

Their Instagram post spilled the chai (pun intended): “Chai masala is an aromatic delight from India. It’s a magical blend of sweetened black tea and milk, jazzed up with a masala mix featuring cardamom, ground ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and black peppercorns.”

The Internet reacts

The internet buzzed with Desi netizens sharing their varied reactions to the news. While some playfully corrected TasteAtlas for the order of words, pointing out it should be “Masala Chai” not “Chai Masala,” others passionately expressed their love for the iconic drink.

One user humorously noted, “It’s Masala Chai, not Chai Masala. Chai Masala literally means the spices that you put in the tea. Masala Chai means spiced tea.”

Another user chimed in, “‘It’s called masala chai, in that order, not ‘chai masala.’ The chai masala is the actual mix that we make to prepare the tea.” A heartfelt comment summed it up, “Masala chai is not a beverage, it’s an emotion.”

Additionally, India’s mango lassi occupied the third position. Previously, it had also received the title of the ‘Best Dairy Beverage In The World’.

Explore the wellness perks of Nutrient-Rich Masala Chai

Masala chai isn’t just a delightful beverage; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in antioxidants like catechins and theaflavins, chai has been associated with combating oxidative stress, preventing cancer, and enhancing various health conditions, as supported by numerous research studies.

Here are some key health benefits of masala chai you ought to be aware of.

Relief against Cold or flu

If you’re under the weather, a warm cup of masala chai might provide relief from common cold symptoms or even act as a preventive measure.

The antiviral properties inherent in black tea may contribute to managing typical illnesses like the common cold and flu. Ginger, known for its antibacterial qualities, can be beneficial in addressing infections such as strep throat. Moreover, the antibacterial and antimicrobial characteristics present in cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves make masala chai a favorable choice when dealing with a cold.

A Heart-Healthy Elixir

Masala chai isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a boon for your heart. Primarily made with black tea, it is packed with antioxidants. The inclusion of clove and cardamom in the mix naturally combats elevated cholesterol levels. This, in turn, reduces the formation of plaques associated with cardiovascular diseases. The ingredients in masala tea play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart rate.

Enhances Energy Levels

The fundamental component in all variations of masala tea is black tea, known for its significant caffeine content. Studies indicate that caffeine naturally enhances energy levels. The bold flavor of masala tea, coupled with its invigorating caffeine content, offers a positive start to your day.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Do you have nagging pain due to joint inflammation? You can say goodbye to pain caused by inflammation with some masala tea. The blend of spices in masala chai, with ginger being a key component, contributes to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the inclusion of clove, known for its pain-relieving properties, further enhances masala tea’s anti-inflammatory characteristics.

Enhances Immune System

Masala tea, enriched with cinnamon and clove, is beneficial for the immune system. The combined action of these compounds creates a synergistic effect, bolstering the body’s defense mechanisms against infections. One could argue that masala tea possesses medicinal qualities, particularly in supporting immune health.

Digestive Aid

Tea is acidic in nature and can trigger stomach problems. But when you add ginger to it, it balances out the acid content of tea. The carefully selected ingredients in masala tea, such as cardamom (elaichi), tulsi, and clove, contribute to improved digestion. The addition of ginger intensifies these effects, providing a refreshing and calming influence on the digestive system.

Savoring a steaming cup of Masala chai daily can work wonders for your health. However, anything in excess can lead to problems. Due to its caffeine content, individuals sensitive to caffeine should be mindful of their intake. Additionally, the presence of tannins in tea can potentially lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and hormonal imbalances.