Dried Blue Butterfly Pea Flowers

Also known by its scientific name Clitoria ternatea the butterfly pea is a plant native to Asia. You may recognize it by its striking, vibrant blue flowers.It is also rich in anthocyanins, which are the antioxidant compounds responsible for its unique color.
For this reason, manufactures may use butterfly pea flower in cosmetics or as a natural dye for foods, drinks, and textiles.
The flowers are also commonly brewed into an herbal tea, often alongside ingredients like lemongrass, honey, and lemon.When the acidity of the pea flower tea changes, the color changes as well. This quality makes butterfly pea flower a popular ingredient among mixologists for specialty cocktails.

Additionally, it’s known for its medicinal properties and has been associated with a variety of potential health benefits.

Nutrients in butterfly pea flower

Butterfly pea flowers are rich in anthocyanin compounds called ternatins, which give the plant its vibrant hue.
Test-tube studies suggest that ternatins can alleviate inflammation and may prevent cancer cell growth.

Additionally, the plant contains several other antioxidants, including .

Kaemphferol. This compound has been studied extensively for its cancer-fighting properties. Test-tube studies indicate that it may kill off cancer cells.
p-Coumaric acid. Some research suggests that p-coumaric acid could have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects, which may help protect against disease.
Delphinidin-3,5-glucoside. According to one study, this antioxidant may help stimulate immune function and cause cell death in colorectal cancer cells.

Butterfly pea flowers may be associated with several health benefits.

Supports skin and hair health.
Cosmetic manufacturers boast about butterfly pea flowers’ effectiveness in everything from skin care serums to hair mists and shampoos.
Butterfly pea flower contains a rich array of antioxidants, which may also be beneficial for promoting hair and skin health.

May promote weight loss.
Some studies even suggest that butterfly pea flower may aid in weight loss efforts.

Stabilizes blood sugar levels.
Studies indicate that butterfly pea flower may reduce your risk of diabetes and related symptoms.

How to use butterfly pea flower

Butterfly pea flower is found in many cosmetic products, including hair mists, toners, shampoos, and face masks.
You can also use the plant to brew an herbal tea, which is known for its earthy flavor and vibrant blue color.

To make butterfly pea flower tea, also referred to as “blue tea,” simply add 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of dried flowers to 1 cup (240 mL) of hot water.
Let the tea steep for 10–15 minutes before straining out the dried flowers. Enjoy hot or served over ice.
You can also add a bit of lemon juice, lime juice, or honey to ramp up the flavor. The acidity of citrus fruits can also turn the drink a deep purple hue, thanks to the ternatins the plant naturally contains.

Butterfly pea flower is a common ingredient in many herbal teas, mixed drinks, and cosmetic products.