Butterfly pea flower tea is gaining popularity for its stunning color-changing properties and butterfly pea flower benefits. Whether you’re a tea lover or just curious about unique beverages, this tea will intrigue you. It’s not only beautiful but also packed with antioxidants and other wellness perks. In this article, you’ll learn how to make butterfly pea flower tea in just seven easy steps, explore its benefits, and discover its potential uses during pregnancy.
What is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Butterfly pea flower tea is made from the dried petals of the butterfly pea plant (Clitoria ternatea), which is native to Southeast Asia. Its vibrant blue hue is what makes it stand out, but when combined with acidic ingredients like lemon, it transforms into a striking purple color. This tea can be served hot or cold and is often used in cocktails, mocktails, and desserts due to its versatility and eye-catching appearance.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Here’s a simple guide to making butterfly pea flower tea from scratch. You don’t need to be a professional to enjoy this delightful drink.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
To make butterfly pea flower tea, you’ll need:
1 cup of water
1 teaspoon dried butterfly pea flowers (5-6 flowers)
Honey or sugar (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)
Ice cubes (for iced tea)
2. Boil the Water
Start by bringing a cup of water to a boil. The temperature should be around 100°C (212°F) to extract the best flavor and color from the butterfly pea flowers.
3. Add the Butterfly Pea Flowers
Once the water has boiled, add the dried butterfly pea flowers to the water. Let them steep for 5 to 10 minutes. The longer they steep, the deeper the blue color and stronger the flavor will become.
4. Strain the Tea
After steeping, strain the tea into a cup or teapot to remove the flowers. You can save the petals for a second brew if desired.
5. Add Sweeteners (Optional)
If you prefer a sweeter tea, now is the time to add honey, sugar, or any other sweetener of your choice. Stir until fully dissolved.
6. Add Lemon Juice (For Color Change)
This is the fun part! To witness the magical color change, squeeze a few drops of lemon juice into the tea. The acidic lemon juice will turn the vibrant blue into a stunning purple.
7. Serve Hot or Cold
Your butterfly pea flower tea is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot for a comforting beverage, or let it cool down, add ice cubes, and serve it chilled for a refreshing summer drink.
Butterfly Pea Flower Benefits
While its mesmerizing color is the main draw for many, butterfly pea flower tea boasts several health benefits that make it worth sipping regularly.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Butterfly pea flowers contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants support overall wellness and can protect against cellular damage.
2. Improves Skin and Hair Health
The antioxidants in butterfly pea flowers can boost collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and promotes hair growth. Regular consumption may contribute to healthier, glowing skin and stronger, shinier hair.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The anti-inflammatory effects of butterfly pea flowers can help reduce inflammation in the body, making it a good choice for those dealing with chronic conditions or inflammatory diseases.
4. Enhances Cognitive Function
Butterfly pea flowers have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory and brain function. The antioxidants in the tea can also reduce oxidative stress in the brain, supporting mental clarity and focus.
5. Supports Weight Loss
Drinking butterfly pea flower tea can aid in weight management due to its low calorie count and metabolism-boosting properties. It’s a hydrating and flavorful alternative to sugary beverages.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Pregnant: Is it Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women often wonder if consuming herbal teas like butterfly pea flower tea is safe. While butterfly pea flower tea is rich in health benefits, it’s important to consider a few factors before including it in a pregnancy diet.
1. Limited Research on Pregnancy
There’s limited research on the safety of butterfly pea flower tea during pregnancy. While no major side effects have been reported, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming any herbal teas when pregnant.
2. Potential Benefits During Pregnancy
The antioxidants in butterfly pea flowers may offer some benefits during pregnancy by reducing oxidative stress and boosting immune health. However, these benefits have not been studied extensively in pregnant women.
3. Moderation is Key
If you decide to consume butterfly pea flower tea while pregnant, moderation is essential. Start with small amounts and observe how your body reacts. Avoid overconsumption, as with any herbal remedy during pregnancy.
4. Consult Your Doctor
Before adding butterfly pea flower tea to your pregnancy diet, consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider. This is especially important if you have any existing health conditions or are on medication.
Fun Variations of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
While the basic recipe for butterfly pea flower tea is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different ingredients to create fun variations.
1. Iced Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Lemonade
Mix your butterfly pea flower tea with freshly squeezed lemonade and a dash of honey for a refreshing summer drink. The addition of lemon juice will turn the tea purple and give it a tangy flavor.
2. Butterfly Pea Flower Milk Tea
For a creamier twist, add some milk or coconut milk to your butterfly pea flower tea. This variation adds richness and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the floral notes of the tea.
3. Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail
If you’re hosting a party, impress your guests with a butterfly pea flower tea mocktail. Mix the tea with sparkling water, a splash of lime juice, and garnish with mint leaves for a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage.
Conclusion
How to make butterfly pea flower tea is simple and rewarding, and the tea itself offers numerous health benefits. Whether you’re drinking it for its beauty, taste, or wellness perks, this vibrant tea is sure to become a favorite. However, if you are pregnant, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before introducing this herbal tea into your diet. While butterfly pea flower tea pregnant women may find the tea appealing, safety should always come first. From iced teas to mocktails, the possibilities for enjoying butterfly pea flower tea are endless.
