Made from the butterfly pea flower, many health-conscious tea lovers have found this colourful brew their favourite for its eye-catching colour, rich antioxidant content, and wellness-enhancing properties.
But, although this drink has been gaining popularity recently, butterfly pea flower tea has actually long been a staple in Southeast Asian traditions as a flavourful and functional beverage. Let’s get into why it deserves a spot in your daily routine.
What is butterfly pea flower tea?
Butterfly pea tea, also known as butterfly pea tea or blue tea, is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from the dried petals of the Clitoria ternatea flower, a plant that’s native to Southeast Asia.
Historically, butterfly pea flowers were used in Thai and Malay cooking to colour rice and desserts, giving certain foods like nasi kerabu their blue hue. But more recently, butterfly pea tea has gained popularity worldwide thanks to its potential health benefits and fascinating colour-changing properties. Picture this: when lemon juice is added, the tea shifts from deep blue to a purple hue.
Unlike typical green or black teas, butterfly tea flower tea has a mild, earthy taste and is usually enjoyed on its own or blended with citrus, mint, or honey. Many people enjoy it for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-enhancing properties.
The benefits of butterfly pea flower tea you’ll love
1. Packed with antioxidants
Butterfly pea flower tea is rich in anthocyanins, which are the same powerful antioxidants found in blueberries. These compounds help your body fight oxidative stress by neutralising harmful free radicals, which may support healthier skin, reduce inflammation, and slow down the ageing process.
2. May help support skin and hair health
Likewise, the high anthocyanin content of butterfly pea flower tea may protect the skin from free radical damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also promote hair growth and protect against hair loss.
3. Promotes brain function and focus
In traditional medicine, Clitoria ternatea has long been used as a brain-boosting herb, as it increases acetylcholine, which is essential for brain function. Findings in one study suggest that it could have potential benefits in helping slow or prevent cognitive decline in dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.
4. Encourages better digestion
Drinking butterfly pea flower tea after meals may aid digestion and reduce bloating. It has mild diuretic properties and can help the body detox more effectively, making it a refreshing after-meal beverage, hot or cold.
5. A natural way to manage blood sugar
Butterfly pea flower tea is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, making it suitable for people watching their blood sugar. Its rich antioxidant content also makes it a safe and beneficial tea choice for better metabolic health and energy balance throughout the day.
How to make butterfly pea tea at home
Brewing butterfly pea flower tea is easy and versatile. Here’s how:
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Boil 5–10 dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 5 minutes.
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Strain and enjoy hot, or cool it down with ice for a refreshing iced version.
- Optional: Mix with honey or mint leaves for added flavour.
If you’d like a bit of acidity and colour appeal, add lemon or lime juice to watch the colour turn from blue to purple. This same magic is what creates the base for "magical lemonade" or colourful mocktails.
How much butterfly pea tea should I drink a day?
For most people, 1–2 cups of butterfly pea tea per day is enough to enjoy its benefits. It’s generally safe and well-tolerated, but like all herbal drinks, it’s best consumed in moderation.
If you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition, be sure to consult a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.
Savour the magic of butterfly pea flower tea with Mahnaz Food!
With its brilliant colour and body-friendly benefits, butterfly pea flower tea is just as much of a pretty drink as it is a healthy, refreshing choice that you can enjoy every day. Whether you’re brewing it for its antioxidant effects or for a fun, colour-changing experience, this herbal tea is a unique choice you’ll want for your pantry.
Enjoy premium-quality butterfly pea tea in Malaysia by getting yours at Mahnaz Food today! Naturally caffeine-free, free from additives, and packed with wellness in every cup, it’s the ideal choice for any tea lover and connoisseur. Try it today and enjoy a colourful sip of health!