Chai vs. Coffee: The Warm, Spiced Alternative That’s Easier on Your Body

Why More People Are Replacing Coffee with Chai Tea

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm cup of chai tea. The aroma is soothing, the spices are grounding, and the moderate caffeine content gives you a steady energy boost. For those looking for a healthy coffee alternative, chai is becoming the go-to choice. (Also note that there is Rooibos Chai, which is an incredible caffeine-free alternative!)

Is Chai Coffee or Tea?

Chai is tea, not coffee. It’s made from black tea blended with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and black peppercorn. Often prepared with milk, this spiced tea is commonly known as a chai latte. Chai can be enjoyed in many forms, including microground tea blends and loose leaf tea.

Does Chai Have Caffeine?

Yes, chai tea contains caffeine, as it is typically made with black tea. The amount of caffeine in chai varies depending on the recipe and steeping time, but a typical serving contains between 15 to 50 mg of caffeine. This makes it a popular choice for those wanting to reduce caffeine intake without giving up their morning ritual.

Chai Tea vs. Coffee: Understanding the Difference

When comparing chai tea vs coffee, the main difference is caffeine strength. Coffee generally contains 60 to 100 mg of caffeine per cup, which can cause jitters and energy crashes. Chai tea delivers a gentler boost, often with added health benefits thanks to its blend of spices and herbs.

More than 80% of people around the world consume caffeine daily. Choosing chai as a healthy alternative to coffee helps reduce caffeine-related side effects while still improving focus and energy levels.

Why Coffee Causes Jitters and Chai Tea Doesn’t

Caffeine is a natural stimulant. While it increases alertness, too much can elevate heart rate and cause anxiety. This is especially true with coffee, which is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Chai tea releases caffeine more gradually, making it a better tea for energy without the crash.

The Benefits of Tannins in Chai Tea

Chai tea contains tannins, a type of antioxidant found in black tea. These compounds help slow the absorption of caffeine and support your digestive system. Tannins also give chai its signature depth of flavour and astringency. Using non-dairy milk in your chai helps maintain the effectiveness of tannins.

Tannins Support Heart Health

Rich in flavonoids and procyanidins, tannins improve blood circulation and may lower the risk of heart disease. They help prevent artery hardening and support healthy blood pressure.

Tannins Aid Digestion

Tannins promote gut health and improve metabolism. Combined with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, chai tea may reduce bloating and support smoother digestion.

Tannins May Help Lower Cholesterol

Polyphenols in tea help reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol, contributing to better overall heart health.

Chai Tea Benefits: More Than Just Energy

Chai tea is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, and for good reason. The combination of black tea and Ayurvedic spices makes it an ideal wellness drink. Chai typically includes functional ingredients like turmeric, reishi, and ashwagandha to provide enhanced support for energy, focus, immunity, and stress relief.

Boosts Energy and Mental Clarity

Chai tea’s moderate caffeine level provides just enough stimulation to stay alert and productive, making it one of the best teas for energy in the morning or midday.

Promotes Calm Focus with L-Theanine

Chai contains L-theanine, a compound that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This synergy with caffeine allows for calm alertness and steady concentration.

Reduces Inflammation Naturally

Spices in chai, especially turmeric and ginger, are known to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Chai tea is enriched with reishi and cordyceps to support your body’s stress response.

Supports Oral Health

Chai tea naturally contains antibacterial properties that reduce plaque and bad bacteria in the mouth. Ginger and cardamom also help freshen breath and promote oral hygiene.

May Soothe Menstrual Cramps

Both cinnamon and ginger have been shown to relieve menstrual discomfort, including cramps, nausea, and bloating.

Even More Benefits of Chai Tea

Hydration and Healthy Skin

Staying hydrated is essential for glowing skin. Tea, including black chai, helps replenish fluids while delivering skin-supporting minerals like zinc, magnesium, and potassium.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Chai tea requires significantly less water to produce than coffee. It takes only about 120 cups of water to grow the ingredients for one cup of tea, compared to 1,120 cups for coffee. Choosing tea is a simple way to reduce your environmental impact.

Chai Tea is Available in Many Convenient Forms

Unlike coffee, which offers limited variety, chai tea comes in thousands of global styles. Our Chai Microground Tea Mix delivers convenience without compromising on taste or nutrition. Simply stir into hot or cold plant milk and enjoy.

Often Certified Organic and Clean

Many chai blends, including ours at Old Growth Beverages, are USDA Organic and made without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or artificial ingredients. Our tea is gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan-friendly.

Is Chai Tea Less Acidic Than Coffee?

Yes, chai tea is generally less acidic than coffee. Coffee often has a pH below 4, while black chai tea ranges between pH 4.9 and 5.5. For people with acid reflux or sensitivity to acidity, chai is a gentler choice. Factors like brewing time, additives, and water temperature also affect acidity.

How to Decide Between Chai and Coffee

Still deciding whether to stick with coffee or switch to chai? Ask yourself:

• How sensitive am I to caffeine?
• Do I experience jitters or crashes after coffee?
• Am I looking for added health benefits from my morning drink?
• Do I want to reduce acidity or environmental impact?
• Am I looking for natural stress support and antioxidants?

If you answered yes to any of the above, chai tea may be the better daily option.

The Bottom Line: A Healthier Coffee Alternative

Old Growth Beverages’ Chai Microground Tea Mix makes switching from coffee so simple and enjoyable. It can be prepared simply by adding water and/or milk and mixing to combine! Whether you're reducing your coffee intake or simply looking for a more balanced way to start the day, chai tea offers a delicious and functional solution.

Start Your Day with Intention

Chai is more than just a drink. It’s a wellness ritual that supports mind, body, and environment. Make the switch today with Old Growth Beverages’ Chai Microground Tea Mix and experience the difference for yourself.

 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or environmental advice. Always consult with a qualified health provider or sustainability expert regarding any concerns related to your health or the environment. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of any regulatory or health authority.

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