So often our lives are so busy that we have trouble finding times to eat right. This leads to not feeling well and having less energy, which in turn can become part of a nasty cycle of poor nutritional intake, and worse health. We need to eat better. Food can heal or hurt us. We also need to drink better, because it’s not just foods that heal, it’s also drinks. No, not adult beverages, although there have been many studies done on the health benefits of a glass of wine.
In particular, the drink of choice here is tea. What may come to mind first in regards to healing and tea, is green tea. However, green teas are not necessarily enjoyed by all. Plus, limiting healing tea to green teas is a disservice to all of the delicious tea available out there, for example chai.
Chai itself is made from multiple ingredients, each with healing properties. Those ingredients often include:
- Cinnamon– can help fight against infections, and may help general health against several diseases.
- Cardamom– beneficial to the digestive system.
- Cloves– pain relief, many times for tooth aches.
- Black Pepper– helps to support circulation, metabolism, and support a healthy immune system.
- Nutmeg– may just help with insomnia.
- Chinese Star Anise– immune system health
- Ginger– supports the circulatory and immune systems, and help with motion sickness.
- Fennel– supports bone health.
When bought pre-mixed chai can have additives, and more sugar than needed. A healthier way to enjoy chai is to prepare it from a tea bag, and add a creamy product of choice (cow’s milk, cream, almond milk, soy milk, etc.), and a sweetener of choice (I have found a few favorites, such as honey, or stevia). Chai can also have caffeine in it, albeit much less than coffee, but perhaps enough to help clear the morning fog from the mind. Also, chai before bed, with the dairy and the heat, can help aid in relaxation and a solid night’s rest.
Drank hot, or enjoyed cold, chai not only tastes delicious but is very healthy.
Teri
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