What is the Blue Butterfly Pea Flower?
Scientifically named Clitoria ternatea, this plant is a tropical vine known by many names, including Asian pigeonwings and blue pea . The flower's deep blue color comes from high concentrations of anthocyanins, which are antioxidant pigments also found in blueberries and purple grapes .
In the kitchen, the dried flowers are primarily used as a natural food coloring for rice dishes, desserts, and cocktails . Its most famous trick is its pH sensitivity: when you add lemon or lime juice to the blue tea, the color shifts to purple or bright pink .
Potential Health Benefits
The flower's benefits are largely attributed to its rich antioxidant content,
- Rich in Antioxidants: The anthocyanins help combat oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to aging and various diseases .
- Supports Heart Health: it may help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots.
- May Help Manage Blood Sugar: Some research suggests compounds in the flower can inhibit enzymes that break down carbohydrates, potentially slowing sugar absorption.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Traditional medicine uses it for various ailments, and it has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects in some studies .
- Skin and Hair Health: It has been traditionally used in shampoos and toners. Antioxidants may help stimulate collagen and protect skin from aging.
How to Make Blue Tea
Making the tea is simple:
- Place 5-6 dried butterfly pea flowers in a cup .
- Pour hot water over them and let it steep for at least 5 minutes .
- Remove the flowers or strain. You can drink it hot or iced.
- To see the color change, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice .
- The tea has a mild, earthy flavor, so you can add honey, ginger, or lemongrass for taste .
Is It Safe?
Butterfly pea flower is generally considered safe for consumption in food and tea amounts. However, it may have blood-thinning effects, so if you are on blood pressure medication or blood thinners, it is best to consult a doctor before drinking it regularly
What's in the box
1 x 50g pack of Zurial Organics Blue Butterfly Pea Flower
Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: This product may be a complementary medicine and/or not have been evaluated and verified by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority for its quality, safety or intended use. Use of this product is therefore not intended to compensate for diagnosis, treatment, cure, or mitigation of medical conditions and must not substitute the obtaining of medical advice from a registered health professional for any health or health-related conditions.
