The butterfly pea flower, also known as Clitoria ternatea, Asian pigeonwing, and Darwin pea, is a vibrant blue flower native to tropical regions, especially Southeast Asia. This flower has gained popularity not only for its visual appeal, which makes it a popular ingredient in boutique cocktails, herbal teas, and cosmetics, but also for its potential health benefits. Many cultures have used it for its aesthetics and therapeutic properties in traditional medicine.
What Is Butterfly Pea Flower?
Origin and History
The butterfly pea flower is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Its vibrant blue flowers are visually striking and have made it a popular ingredient in various applications. The plant is technically a perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae plant family. In India, this flower is named after Hindu goddess, Aparajita, meaning one who cannot be conquered or defeated. It is is commonly offered during Puja rituals, which are daily rituals of ceremonial worship, that usually includes a brief offering to a god. In Thailand, this drink is called Anchan tea.
Colour-Changing Properties
One of the unique characteristics of the butterfly pea flower is its ability to change color depending on the pH level of the solution it is in. When the acidity of pea flower tea changes, so does its color. For example, adding lemon juice to butterfly pea flower tea will turn it from blue to purple, making it a favorite among bartenders and food artists for creating visually appealing cocktails and dishes.
Nutritional Content
The butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give it its vibrant blue color and contribute to its health-promoting properties. It also contains ternatins, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, and delphinidin-3,5-glucoside, all of which have potential health benefits. The color is due to antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins, and these bad boys also give butterfly pea flowers their healthy properties.
Traditional Uses
In Southeast Asia, the butterfly pea flower has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicine. It is also used as a natural dye for textiles, foods, and hair procedures. Additionally, it is often served as a calming herbal tea with honey and lemon.
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Potential Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower
The butterfly pea flower offers a range of potential health benefits, largely attributed to its high antioxidant content.
Promotes Skin and Hair Health
Butterfly pea flower can be found on the ingredient lists of skin serums, masks, moisturizers, hair mists, shampoos, and conditioners because it works. The flower is rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which are beneficial for skin and hair health. A recent 2021 study found that butterfly pea extract could increase skin hydration by a whopping 70% one hour after slathering it onto the skin. Hydration is critical for skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Butterfly pea flower also helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and balances oil production.
Antioxidant Effects
Antioxidants, such as those found in butterfly pea flower, fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause damage to cells and contribute to aging and various diseases. By incorporating butterfly pea flower products into skincare or haircare routines, individuals may be able to reap the benefits of its antioxidants.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflamed skin and hair can lead to issues such as acne and hair loss. The compounds found in butterfly pea flower may help calm inflammation, potentially resulting in healthier skin and hair.
May Promote Weight Loss
Butterfly pea flower may support weight management by slowing down fat cell formation. A test-tube study found that extracts of the butterfly pea flower might play a role in slowing down fat cell formation. The mechanism? It seems to regulate some specific pathways involved in cell progression. Ternatins, a component found within the blue wonder flower, may also contribute. An older test-tube study from 2009 suggested that these substances may slow new fat cell synthesis.
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Digestive Support
Drinking butterfly pea flower tea may aid digestion, helping the body make the most of food nutrients and calories. This, in turn, might aid in weight control.
Potential Appetite Suppressant Effects
Some reports suggest that butterfly pea flower extract might curb appetite. Less appetite means fewer calories, thus culminating in weight loss. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels
The butterfly pea flower might help to keep blood sugar levels steady. Studies have shown that drinks with its extract lead to lower blood sugar and insulin levels. Plus, the plant’s antioxidants may guard against cell havoc related to diabetes. In one study involving rats with diabetes, the rats who received butterfly pea flower extract had better blood sugar levels than those who didn’t.
Improves Cognitive Function
Early studies hint that butterfly pea flowers might boost cognitive health. Its antioxidants might guard against mental decay with age. There may be gains in memory, focus, and learning. More studies are needed to determine how butterfly pea flower impacts cognitive health.
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Butterfly pea flower herbal tea is popular for its calming nature. If you’re dealing with anxiety and want to incorporate this herbal tea, it is better to consult your doctor first, they will assess your situation and its severity and advise accordingly.
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Boosts Immunity
The antioxidant content of butterfly pea flower may help support the immune system by protecting the body from free radicals. This is proposed to strengthen the immune response and boost overall health.
Benefits for Eye Health
Anthocyanins, a group of antioxidants found in butterfly pea flowers, have been demonstrated to potentially improve blood flow to the eyes. This might aid in glaucoma, retinal degeneration, impaired vision, and eye fatigue.
How to Use Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea flower is versatile and can be used in various ways.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
To make butterfly pea flower tea:
- Boil water.
- Place 10 or so dried butterfly pea flowers in a teapot or a cup.
- Pour the hot water over the flowers.
- Let it steep for about 4-5 minutes, until the water starts turning blue.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to turn the tea purple.
- Sweeten with honey or sweetener of choice, if desired.
- Sip and savor the mild, earthy flavors of this unique brew.
Flavour Enhancements
Try honey, lemon juice, or mint leaves to enhance flavour. Lemon juice can turn your beverage from blue to purple.
Rice and Noodle Dishes
In Southeast Asia, people use butterfly pea flowers for food colouring. So, adding it to your rice or noodles could give them a unique look and taste.
Desserts and Beverages
Your desserts and drinks will love its colour-changing properties. Get creative with it in simple syrups, cocktails, and baked sweets.
Natural Food Colouring and Dye
You can also use butterfly pea flowers as a natural food colouring. It can even dye fabrics. Use it instead of fake colours for an eco-friendly pick.
Topical Application
In addition to being consumed as tea or food, butterfly pea flowers are believed to offer amazing therapeutic properties when applied topically. It has been demonstrated in trials to boost skin hydration by 70% in just one hour after application. This may be because the flower has flavonoids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that might promote the body’s natural synthesis of collagen and elastin. Moreover, it possesses anti-glycation qualities that might delay skin ageing.
Potential Side Effects of Butterfly Pea Flower
Allergy Considerations
In general, butterfly pea flower is safe in moderation. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, and trouble breathing. If you suspect an allergic reaction, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions
There is limited information available on potential drug interactions with butterfly pea flower. If you are on medication, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before using it.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
More research is needed on the safety of butterfly pea flower for pregnant or nursing women. As a precautionary measure, they should avoid using it unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
The butterfly pea flower is a versatile and visually appealing plant with a range of potential health benefits. Its antioxidants may support skin and hair health, aid weight loss, stabilize blood sugar levels, improve cognitive function, and boost immunity. It can be used in teas, as a colouring in cooking, and even in dyes. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating butterfly pea flowers into your diet or skincare regimen, especially if you have allergies, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does butterfly pea flower taste like?
Its taste is mild and earthy, resembling green tea. It can be enjoyed alone or with honey, lemon, or mint.
Is it safe to eat butterfly pea flowers?
Yes, in general, it is safe when eaten in moderation. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using butterfly pea flowers, especially if you’re prone to allergies, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Who should avoid consuming butterfly pea flower tea?
People allergic to the flower should not drink the tea. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid it. Always consult your healthcare provider.
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