What is Butterfly Pea Tea? Yum, Fun and Refreshing.

Butterfly pea tea, also known as blue tea or anchan tea, has gained popularity in recent years due to its vibrant blue color and potential health benefits. This unique herbal tea is made from the flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, native to Southeast Asia.

What is Butterfly Pea Tea?

Butterfly pea tea is an herbal infusion made from the dried flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, a climbing vine that produces vivid blue flowers. The tea is caffeine-free and has a mild, earthy flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste.

When brewed, the tea has a striking blue color due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are natural pigments found in the flower petals. 

Butterfly Pea Tea Origins

Butterfly pea tea has been consumed for centuries in Southeast Asian countries, particularly in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. In traditional medicine practices, such as Ayurveda, the plant has been used to treat various ailments, including anxiety, depression, and inflammation. The tea has also been used as a natural food coloring agent in traditional dishes and beverages.

This tea is thought to have many benefits, including:

Rich in antioxidants: Butterfly pea tea contains anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

May improve brain function: Some studies suggest that the compounds in butterfly pea tea may enhance cognitive performance and memory.

Supports eye health: The antioxidants in the tea may help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of age-related eye disorders.

Promotes skin health: The antioxidants in butterfly pea tea may help slow down the aging process and protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants.

May reduce anxiety and stress: Butterfly pea tea has been traditionally used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress. 

There are several common ways to take this tea:

Hot tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 3-5 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Iced tea: Brew a concentrated tea using the hot tea method, then pour over ice and dilute with water to taste.

Latte: Brew a strong butterfly pea tea, then add steamed milk and sweetener of choice.

Color-changing tea: Add a splash of lemon juice or other acidic ingredient to the brewed tea to watch it change from blue to purple.

Butterfly pea tea can be used as a natural food coloring agent in various dishes and beverages, such as rice dishes, cocktails and mocktails, baked goods, smoothies and yogurt, ice cream and sorbets.

Butterfly pea tea is a unique and visually appealing herbal infusion with a range of potential health benefits. Its versatility in culinary applications and the mesmerizing color-changing properties make it an attractive option for those looking to explore new and exciting beverages.

At Ultraviolet, we've taken the magic of butterfly pea tea and paired it up with blueberry to create a drink that is both delicious and fun.

CLICK HERE to order yours.