What is Chai Tea?

In India, “chai” simply means tea. In America and Europe, “chai tea” usually refers to masala chai – a blend of black tea and traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper.

The base of this spicy tea is referred as black tea – and often Orange Pekoe.

What is Orange Pekoe?

Orange Pekoe (OP) is a tea grading term, not a flavor or type of tea. It refers to whole-leaf black tea, typically of high quality, often sourced from India or Sri Lanka. The term does not refer to orange flavor, but to the leaf's appearance and size.

Most authentic chai blends, especially high-quality ones (like Tea India’s chai teas), use Orange Pekoe-grade black tea as the base. This grade provides:

• A strong, brisk flavor that holds up well against bold spices.
• A smooth finish, perfect for milk-based preparations like masala chai or chai lattes.

Why Orange Pekoe Makes a Difference in Chai Tea

When you see the term Orange Pekoe on a chai tea label, it’s more than just a name—it’s a marker of quality. This grading refers to whole, unbroken tea leaves that deliver a smoother, richer brew. For tea lovers who appreciate a full-bodied and flavorful chai, choosing a blend made with Orange Pekoe is a great way to ensure you're getting a premiumloose-leaf tea experience.

Orange Pekoe is often used as the foundation in many traditional Indian chai blends, including those crafted by Tea India. Paired with warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, this grade of black tea offers a robust and aromatic cup that can be enjoyed with milk, sweetener, or on its own. Whether you’re brewing a hot pot for a quiet morning or sharing chai moments with friends, Orange Pekoe chai tea promises an authentic and satisfying experience.

Orange Pekoe Tea Benefits 

A term commonly heard in conjunction with chai tea is Orange Pekoe. That is a clear indication that the tea in question is loose-leaf and of excellent quality. 

One of the key benefits of Orange Pekoe tea is heart health.There have been studies which have shown that cinnamon, one of the key ingredients in the drink, can help lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.

Both the cinnamon and the ginger present in chai can also be highly effective at reducing blood sugar levels. Too much sugar in your diet can lead to weight gain, heart problems, or even issues like diabetes, but regular consumption of chai has been shown to increase your body’s insulin resistance and draw sugar out of your blood. 

Is Chai Tea Good For Sleep? 

You may be concerned that the caffeine present in chai may make it harder for you to drop off, but caffeine levels are usually not significant enough to disturb your rest. 

So although there are no ingredients in a cup of chai tea that will actively promote sleep, the relaxing nature of a steaming mug of orange pekoe tea before bed could be just the ticket for sending you into a deep slumber.

Why Orange Pekoe is the Chai Essential

In the world of chai, your spices might bring the aroma—but it’s the quality of the tea that delivers the soul. Tea India’s Orange Pekoe Loose Leaf Tea doesn’t just support your spice blend; it elevates your entire chai experience. With its rich body, smooth texture, and authentic character, it’s the black tea base your kitchen has been waiting for.

Whether you’re brewing for guests, starting your morning, or winding down in the evening, make every cup meaningful. Choose Tea India’s Orange Pekoe—because real chai begins with real tea.