Organic Butterfly Pea Flowers (Clitoria ternatea)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)

Common Names: Blue Pea, Asian Pigeonwings, Cordofan Pea, Darwin Pea

Botanical Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)

Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and parts of India.

Parts Used: Flowers, sometimes roots and leaves

Botany and Identification:

Butterfly pea is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking blue to purple flowers. The plant has a climbing habit, with slender stems and leaves composed of several leaflets. The flowers are typically large and solitary, resembling the shape of a butterfly, hence the name. The vibrant blue color of the petals is due to anthocyanins, which also have health benefits.

Habitat: Butterfly pea thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, preferring well-drained soils and full sunlight. It can be found in gardens, along roadsides, and in forest edges.

History and Folklore:

In traditional Southeast Asian cultures, butterfly pea flowers have been used for centuries in food, beverages, and traditional medicine. The flowers are often used to make a natural dye, particularly in Thailand, where they are used to color rice and desserts. The plant also holds a symbolic place in some cultures, associated with femininity and beauty.

Medicinal Uses:

• Cognitive Function: Butterfly pea is traditionally used in Ayurveda and other healing systems to enhance memory and cognitive function. It's believed to help with conditions like anxiety and depression due to its adaptogenic properties.

• Antioxidant Properties: The high anthocyanin content in the flowers provides significant antioxidant effects, which help in combating oxidative stress in the body.

• Anti-inflammatory: It has been used to reduce inflammation and is sometimes used in topical preparations for minor wounds or skin irritations.

• Skin and Hair Health: The plant is often used in traditional beauty treatments to promote healthy skin and hair. It's thought to stimulate collagen production and reduce premature graying of hair.

Energetics and Taste:

Butterfly pea has a slightly sweet and earthy taste, with cooling energetics. It is often brewed into tea, where it can be consumed hot or cold.

Active Compounds:

• Anthocyanins: Responsible for the deep blue color and antioxidant effects.
• Flavonoids: Contribute to the plant's anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Peptides: Some bioactive peptides in the plant have been studied for their role in improving cognitive function.

Cautions:

Butterfly pea is generally considered safe for most people when used in moderation. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using it, as there is limited research on its effects during pregnancy. It may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect blood pressure or blood sugar levels.

Scientific Studies:

1. Cognitive Enhancement: A study published in Phytomedicine found that Clitoria ternatea has nootropic effects, improving memory and learning in animal models .
2. Antioxidant Activity: Research published in Food Chemistry highlights the strong antioxidant potential of the anthocyanins in butterfly pea flower, suggesting its use in managing oxidative stress .
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: A study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that butterfly pea extract exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory settings, supporting its traditional use .