Tea is much more than just a drink! In fact, in most Indian homes, people like to start and end the day with a cup of hot chai. But as much as people like to indulge chaiSome common problems occur as a result of drinking chai, such as bloating and stomach upset, to name a few. Well, here are some desi spices that can not only enhance the taste of tea but also increase its health quotient and reduce the after-effects. So read on and find out…
Ginger
Ginger is one of the most popular spices used in chai, and for good reason. It is known for its ability to soothe the digestive system. After drinking chai, some people experience bloating, indigestion, or a feeling of heaviness in their stomach. This is often due to the combination of dairy, sugar and caffeine, which can upset sensitive stomachs. Ginger contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols that aid digestion, reduce nausea, and prevent bloating. It can also help reduce the feeling of heaviness after a cup of chai. By including a small amount of fresh ginger or ginger powder in your chai, you can promote smoother digestion and enjoy your cup of tea without any discomfort afterwards. Add freshly grated ginger or a small slice of dried ginger to your chai brew for a subtle spiciness. this can keep your stomach calm.

Cardamom
Cardamom is another essential spice in traditional chai, contributing to its aromatic flavor. But the benefits of cardamom go beyond just the taste. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate some of the after-effects of the cellarsuch as inflammation or bloating. Cardamom helps balance the effects of caffeine and sugar by promoting better circulation and relieving stress. It is known to soothe the digestive tract, reduce gas and help prevent acidity, which can occur when consuming spicy or caffeinated drinks. Crush a few cardamom pods and add them to your chai mixture, allowing their oils to infuse the tea. This can enhance flavor while keeping your digestive system in check.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another common chai ingredient, known for its sweet-spicy flavor. Although it adds a pleasant warmth to the drink, it can also play an important role in balancing blood sugar levels. One of the common complaints after drinking chai is a sudden rise and fall in energy levels, often due to the sugar in the tea. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. It can stabilize rising blood sugar levels after consuming sugary drinks like chai, reducing the risk of feeling jittery or having a sugar crash later. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to your chai mixture or steep a cinnamon stick in your tea. for a naturally sweet and blood sugar balancing effect.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is a lesser known but powerful addition to chai. Although it is often used in savory dishes, its benefits in tea are remarkable. Black pepper contains an active compound called piperine, which can improve the bioavailability of other spices in chai, making them more effective. The piperine in black pepper can stimulate digestion and help the body absorb essential nutrients more efficiently. It also acts as a mild stimulant, which can offset the fatigue or drowsiness that sometimes follows the caffeine in chai. In addition, black pepper has detoxifying properties that promote the elimination of toxins from the body, thus avoiding sluggishness after drinking chai. Add just a few grinds of freshly cracked black pepper to your chai for a subtle spicy kick, helping to balance other flavors and aid digestion.