Exam season is a stressful time for students. It often leads to late-night study sessions and desperate measures to cram as much information as possible. Staying awake throughout the night to study needs fuel. Without coffee or tea, it is impossible to pull an all-nighter for sure.
Chai is a popular beverage across South Asia. It originated on the early modern Indian subcontinent. Chai tea is created by steeping black tea in milk and water and then sweetening it with sugar. Chai tea is made by combining aromatic herbs and spices. However, it is sometimes served plain. The beverage has grown in popularity worldwide and is now available at many coffee shops and tea houses.
Chai is a staple in many households; other than that, chai is preferred to coffee in India. Chai can be made with many unique combinations and flavours to enjoy during late study nights, feeling refreshed. Here are various chai specials for you to try!
7 Delicious And Unique Chai To Keep You Awake
1. Masala Chai (Spiced Tea)
Masala chai has spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves with milk and sugar. While not the strongest on this list, masala chai does contain a moderate amount of caffeine from the black tea. Additionally, warming spices like ginger and cloves are known to stimulate circulation and improve alertness. It is a classic beauty which can help you concentrate better.
2. Ginger Turmeric Latte
It has a peppery zingy taste, which is balanced by the sweetness of turmeric and milk. Honey and black pepper are also added for a punch. Ginger is known for its circulatory properties, promoting blood flow and alertness. Turmeric contains curcumin, which studies suggest may improve cognitive function and memory. Black pepper enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, making it more readily absorbed by the body. It is excellent for a night's drink.
3. Cardamom Black Tea
Black tea is a natural source of caffeine. It helps provide an energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee. Also, cardamom has stimulant properties that can help improve alertness and cognitive function. You can add lemon or orange for an extra flavour, too. It is a great tea for students who like strong brews to stay awake.
4. Mint Guarana
This drink has a refreshing and bubbly experience. Guarana has a higher caffeine content than coffee beans, making it a potent energy booster. Mint is known to improve mental clarity and focus, while the fizziness adds a stimulating sensation. You can also add berries and extra topping in it. While it is not typically tea, it is a great drink to stay awake.
5. Cinnamon Cacao Smoothie
Cacao powder contains a moderate amount of caffeine and theobromine, a stimulant similar to caffeine. It gives sustained energy without the jitters. The natural sugars in the bananas provide readily available energy, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes. You can make this a meal by adding dark chocolate, nuts or granola. It will fill you up for the rest of the night for sure.
6. Cranberry Rosemary Tea
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help combat fatigue and improve mental clarity. Rosemary is known to enhance memory and focus, while hot water promotes circulation and alertness.You can add a few slices of orange or apple with mint. This kind of tea is popular in China among students to help them concentrate, refresh and study.
7. Coconut Water And Cayenne
It seems unusual, but coconut water is rich in electrolytes essential for maintaining hydration and promoting alertness. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which can improve blood flow and circulation, leading to increased alertness and energy levels. You can add cucumber and other types of berries to it to make it more tastier.
These tea combos are certainly unusual but these are sure to work when one needs to stay awake at night. While these beverages can offer a pick-me-up, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep remain crucial for sustained energy and focus.