Ayurvedic chai recipe: spiced tea with natural digestive benefits

A true symbol of hospitality in India, Chai (or Masala Chai) is much more than just tea — it’s a spiced, aromatic drink enjoyed at any time of the day.

Rich in flavor and benefits, it perfectly embodies the Ayurvedic philosophy: warming, balancing, and awakening the body’s vital energy.

The ayurvedic benefits of Chai

Chai combines spices traditionally known to support digestion and stimulate Agni, the digestive fire, while bringing warmth and vitality to the body.

• Cinnamon – warming and stimulating, it supports circulation and helps balance the Vata and Kapha doshas.

• Fresh ginger – a natural tonic that aids digestion and strengthens immunity.

• Cardamom – refreshing and digestive, it harmonizes Agni without irritating it.

• Clove – valued for its antiseptic properties and action against bloating.

• Black tea or rooibos (optional) – adds a tonic and aromatic note.

  
  

According to Ayurvedic tradition, the spices used in Chai are especially beneficial for Vata and Kapha, doshas that need warmth and stimulation. Those with a Pitta constitution may prefer a gentler version — without black tea and with less ginger.

🍵 Homemade Chai recipe

Discover the Ayurvedic Chai, India’s beloved spiced tea — a warming, digestive, and balancing drink for every season.

For 1 liter:

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 2 cm (about 1 inch) fresh ginger

• 6 cardamom pods

• 4 cloves

• 2 tsp black tea or rooibos (optional)

• 1 glass of milk (cow’s milk or plant-based: almond, oat, or coconut)

• 2 tbsp sugar (or honey, once slightly cooled)

• 1 liter of water

Preparation:

1. Bring the water to a boil with all the spices.

2. When it begins to simmer, lower the heat and add sugar and milk.

3. Let it gently simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the tea, steep for another 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

5. Strain and enjoy warm.

🌸 Seasonal variations

Ayurveda encourages us to adapt our diet to the seasons and our individual constitution.Chai can easily be customized:

• In winter, add a vanilla pod for a softer, more comforting flavor.

• In summer, add a few mint leaves for a lighter, refreshing version.

• You can also vary the spices — star anise, black pepper, nutmeg… each blend offers a different energy.

  
  

These variations aren’t all part of classical Ayurvedic tradition, but they share the same spirit of balance and mindful adaptation.

A moment of well-being

Preparing Chai is more than a recipe — it’s a mindful ritual of presence and warmth.The aroma of spices, the heat of the cup in your hands, the sweetness of milk and sugar — a simple act that reconnects you to yourself and to nature, nourishing both body and soul.