I absolutely love Chai Tea, but as a Vata, I really can’t have caffeine, so most of the time I end up making it myself rather than using tea bags, and that way I can make it decaf by starting with decaf black tea.  The added benefit of making it at home is that you can add spices that are particularly balancing for your dosha, or you can make a tridoshic blend that is good for everyone!  Herbs that are traditionally in Chai tea include:

-Cardamom: brings clarity to the mind; relieves gas, bloating, heartburn and headache; improves digestion.

-Cinnamon: lowers high blood pressure; reduces pain and fever; helps to regulate blood sugar; alleviates nausea, indigestion, heartburn and gas.

-Cloves: gives energy, generates heat in the body; helps to protect against cold.

-Black Pepper: improves circulation, has antioxidant properties, promotes the health of the joints and respiratory system, enhances digestion and appetite.

-Ginger: improves digestion; fights off colds and flu; relieves congestion, sore throat, body aches, and nausea.

-Fennel: improves digestions, relieves gas.

The Vata Blend: Ginger, cardamom, cinnamon.

The Pitta Blend: Cardamom, cinnamon, fennel.

The Kapha Blend: Ginger, Cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper.

Tridoshic Blend: Cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, ginger.