Clitoria Ternatea – The Powerful Magic of Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea flower tea, commonly known as Blue Tea or “Matcha,” is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from the flower of the Clitoria ternatea plant. From the family Fabaceae, it is commonly found throughout South East Asia. This beautiful, delicate vine is famous for its bizarre flowers that are imagined to have the shape of clitoris, hence the Latin name of the genus “Clitoria”.
About Butterfly Pea Flower
Also known as Matcha, blue pea flowers are associated with positive effects on the brain and central nervous system, for its reputation of improving memory and reducing stress. Besides being loaded with health benefits and natural goodness, blue tea is also known for something else—its mesmerising color changing properties.
A few drops of lemon can turn this deep blue tea into a deep purple color. The change occurs when the pH balance of the flowers are altered making it a favorite among mixologists who infuse it with alcohol. These ‘mood rings’ have become a head turner at social events and cocktail parties.
There is no doubt the color and color-changing ability is extraordinary, but let’s dive deeper in to the health benefits of this magic plant.
The history and benefits behind the science of Magic Blue Tea are well documented. Its ability to cure Type II Diabetes is well-known and studies have been conducted on its effectiveness with positive results.
Here are more health benefits to consider:
- Enhances memory
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Improves skin and hair health
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Improves eyesight
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Improves cognitive ability
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Decreases anxiety
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Stress relief
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Reduces inflammation
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Increases vitality
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Weight loss
Antioxidant Benefits
Blue Tea is loaded with antioxidants. Antioxidants are powerful bio-compounds help the body fight free radicals which are toxic and cause premature aging. It is a good thing to detox the body once in a while with an antioxidant rich drink like blue pea tea.
Anti-Diabetic Benefits
Drinking a cup of blue butterfly tea between meals inhibits the intake of glucose from the diet and lowers blood sugar. Antioxidants in the tea also help the body lower risk of infections, which diabetics are prone to, and it is also great for your heart! According to studies, clitoria ternatea leaf is found to lower diabetes in rats and when combined with diet and exercise, is beneficial for curing type II diabetes.
Botanical Beautifier for Skin and Hair
Blue pea tea has anti-glycation properties, which is excellent for the skin and helps prevent skin aging. Furthermore, blue tea contains flavonoids which increase collagen origination, accelerating skin elasticity. It is also good for your hair as it contains anthocyanin, which increases blood flow in the scalp and other parts of the body, strengthening hair follicles.
Brain Booster
Studies have shown blue pea is proven to be nootropic. It refreshes the brain and boosts activity and function. This will keep you energised and feeling great – and really smart. I’m writing this post while enjoying a cup!
Mood Enhancer
Those prone to anxiety and depression can also benefit from blue tea. Stress levels have increased with the recent pandemic. According to studies, blue tea can relieve stress and reduce symptoms of anxiety disorder.
Lowers Risk of Cancer
Blue pea flowers are a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to minimize the profound damage to cells of the body. The lesser the damage to cells, the lesser the risk of all types of cancer.
Growing Clitoria Ternatea Butterfly Pea
Size and Growth
Butterfly peas are fast growing evergreen perennial plants, reaching a height of 6’ – 10’ feet and a spread of 2’ – 3’ feet.
At maturity, these plants feature deciduous and elliptic leaves (1” – 2” inches long) on a climbing stems of 1’ – 9’ feet long.
Butterfly pea flowers are showy deep blue flowers of 1” to 3” inches long.
Clitoria ternatea enjoys full sun for vital growth.
However, this easy-to-grow plant thrives in low light conditions including partial shade.
It also tolerates cool and moist climatic conditions to some extent but wants frost free conditions. Protect the plant in winter in Zone 8 and above.
Butterfly peas prefer regular watering in the first growing season to absorb nutrients in the soil.
Butterfly pea vines can be grown in the ground or spilling out of a large hanging basket. It’s a fast-growing vine that blooms continuously from summer through fall.
Read More:
USDA – US Forest Service Plant of The week
The Blue Tea Remedy from the Magic Clitoria
Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea), a Cyclotide-Bearing Plant With Applications in Agriculture and Medicine
The origin of Butterfly Blue Tea