Butterfly Pea Flower

Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)

Butterfly Pea Flower, known as Clitoria ternatea, is a sacred plant deeply embedded in Ayurvedic traditions and revered for its symbolic connection to the divine. This plant is frequently grown in temples and used in Hindu rituals, particularly as an offering to goddess Durga and Lord Shiva. The blue hue of the flower, often called Krishna light, is believed to be created under Krishna or Christ consciousness, symbolizing divine union. Today, in regions like Southeast Asia and Thailand, Butterfly Pea Flower is commonly grown in homes, believed to bestow an aura of invincibility.

Holistic Benefits:

1. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory: Butterfly Pea Flower is rich in ternatins and kaempferol, which have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells and combat inflammation.

2. Brain Boost: Known in Ayurveda as a brain tonic, this flower enhances memory and cognitive function due to its active compound, acetylcholine. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.

3. Improve Eyesight: The anthocyanins in Butterfly Pea Flower help increase blood flow to the eyes, improving vision and protecting against glaucoma and retinal damage.

4. Reproductive Health: Traditionally recognized for its resemblance to the female anatomy, Butterfly Pea Flower has been used to support women's reproductive health and promote normal sperm production in men.

5. Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels: This flower helps regulate blood sugar levels and inhibit glucose intake, making it beneficial for managing diabetes.

6. Beautify Skin and Strengthen Hair: The high antioxidant content hydrates the skin, stimulates collagen production, and reduces signs of aging. For hair, the bioflavonoid anthocyanin improves scalp circulation, promoting hair growth and reducing graying.

7. Weight Loss: Butterfly Pea Flower aids in digestion, helps relieve nausea and indigestion, and has anthelmintic properties that prevent harmful bacteria growth.

Preparing Butterfly Pea Flower Tea:

1. Hot Tea:

   • Boil 1-2 cups of water.
   • Add 1 teaspoon of dried Butterfly Pea Flowers.
   • Steep for 5-10 minutes until the water turns blue.
   • Optionally, add lemon to change the tea to a violet hue and enhance the flavor.

2. Cold Brew Tea:

   • Add 1 teaspoon of dried flowers to 1-2 cups of cold water.
   • Steep in the refrigerator for 5-8 hours.
   • Serve over ice.

Tea Tip: Enhance your tea by pairing it with flavors like lemongrass, honey, or mint.

This is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medication.