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Butterfly Pea Flower’s Powerful Herb for Health and Beauty
Butterfly pea flower is a vibrant blue, antioxidant-rich herb with a range of potential health benefits, including support for weight loss, blood sugar management, and skin and hair health. Known for its striking color, butterfly pea flower is frequently found in cocktails, skincare products, and herbal teas.
As interest in natural remedies grows, butterfly pea-flower has garnered attention for its high antioxidant content and potential health-promoting properties. Recent studies suggest that it may support healthier skin and hair, aid in weight management, and stabilize blood sugar levels. Here’s a deep dive into the benefits, uses, and possible side effects of butterfly pea-flower.
What is Butterfly Pea Flower?
Scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea, butterfly pea-flower is native to Asia and recognizable by its vibrant blue petals. The flower’s rich color is due to its high anthocyanin content, a type of antioxidant known as ternatins. These compounds have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, making butterfly pea-flower a popular choice in health supplements and natural dyes for food and drink.
The flowers are often brewed into herbal tea with ingredients like lemongrass, honey, or lemon. The tea is well-loved for its unique quality of changing color with pH levels—an exciting feature that has made it a favorite among mixologists.
Key Nutrients and Antioxidants in Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea-flower is loaded with antioxidants, such as:
- Kaempferol: Known for its potential cancer-fighting properties, kaempferol may help in eliminating cancer cells.
- p-Coumaric Acid: This compound shows anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects, which may support overall health.
- Delphinidin-3,5-glucoside: An antioxidant that could help enhance immune function and may aid in fighting colorectal cancer.
Potential Health Benefits
1. Promotes Skin and Hair Health
Many cosmetic brands highlight butterfly pea-flower for its hydrating and anti-aging effects. A study in 2021 indicated that butterfly pea extract could boost skin hydration by 70% shortly after application. For hair, it may even be more effective in promoting growth than standard treatments, thanks to its antioxidant properties.
2. May Aid in Weight Loss
Butterfly pea-flower extract has shown promising results in test-tube studies, indicating that it may slow down fat cell formation. Other studies have found that ternatins in the flower may also inhibit fat synthesis, suggesting its potential role in weight management.
3. Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels
Some studies suggest butterfly pea-flower may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes. One study involving 15 men found that a drink with butterfly pea-flower extract could increase antioxidant levels and reduce blood sugar despite added sugar in the beverage. Animal studies also support its blood-sugar-lowering effects.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Butterfly pea-flower is generally considered safe in moderation. Some people may experience mild side effects like nausea or stomach discomfort, though scientific evidence on adverse effects is limited. If you have health conditions or are on medication, consult with your healthcare provider before using butterfly pea-flower or any herbal supplements.
How to Use Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea-flower is widely used in cosmetic products, including hair mists, shampoos, and skin toners. For a delightful tea, add a teaspoon of dried butterfly pea-flowers to hot water and steep for 10–15 minutes. Adding a touch of lemon or lime can transform the tea into a deep purple hue, creating a visually stunning drink.
The Bottom Line
Butterfly pea-flower offers various health and beauty benefits thanks to its antioxidant-rich profile. It may support weight management, enhance skin and hair health, and help maintain blood sugar balance. With its versatility and minimal side effects, butterfly pea-flower is a beneficial addition to your wellness routine.
