Made by extracting the brightly colored flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, blue pea flower water, sometimes referred to as butterfly pea flower tea, is one of the most sought-after beverages due to its blue coloration. It turns purple when mixed with acidic foods such as lemons. This type of non-caffeinated beverage does much more than offer a visually striking experience. Being rich in bioactive peptides, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, blue pea flower water may be helpful in combating oxidative stress and improving longevity. As per the reviews published in Frontiers in Plant Science, these are 9 health benefits one can obtain from drinking blue pea flower water:
Improves Brain Functions and Memory
As per Ayurveda, butterflies are categorized as Medhya Rasayana plants or brain revitalizing agents. According to today’s medical science, it has been proven through studies that butterflies have active ingredients that increase the level of acetylcholine, which is essential for better cell communication and memory formation.
Helps Manage Glucose Levels Naturally
Among the ways to maintain your metabolic rate, blue pea flower tea ranks among the top options. Studies have shown that the antioxidants contained within the flowers prevent the action of alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in the digestion of carbohydrates. This means that the intake of such tea decreases blood sugar levels.
Protects Vision and Improves Eyesight
A high amount of anthocyanins contained in blue pea flower water promotes increased blood circulation in the vessels of the eyes. This effect may contribute to improved night vision, decreased risk of vision weakening due to extended computer usage, and long-lasting prevention of eye problems, including macular degeneration.
Blocks Processes Leading to Hair Loss
The water of the blue pea flower is a potent hair loss-inhibiting substance due to the presence of anthocyanin. This active compound improves the blood circulation in the scalp and provides nourishment to hair follicles. It not only strengthens the hair from the roots but also prevents early graying and stress-induced hair thinning.
Anxiety Relief
In light of the fact that this water possesses adaptogenic properties, it is beneficial for the central nervous system. Therefore, the body feels relaxed under its influence. What is more, this plant helps the organism resist stress and lowers the levels of both cortisone and anxiety. As far as the ways to use this water to relieve stress, it is preferable to drink it warm before going to bed.
Increases Metabolism and Stimulates Fat Burning
Blue pea flower water is useful not only for those interested in improving their immune system but also for those trying to lose excess weight. As research shows, the unique compounds of this plant (namely, ternatins) are able to reduce the amount of adipose tissue by blocking its synthesis via lipid metabolism regulation. At the same time, fat burning increases slightly.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect
Various problems arise due to the inflammatory process within our body system, such as problems with joints and the heart. Due to the anti-inflammatory effects of the blue pea flower, the body can be protected against any type of inflammation and cytokine generation.
Enhances and Balances Your Mood
Aside from its ability to relieve you of stress, this plant has long been used as an effective and natural way of fighting depression. Components found in the flower have been found to work well with neurotransmitter pathways in the brain that control the regulation of mood, including serotonin and dopamine.
Promotes Respiratory Function
The blue pea flower water has traditionally been used in medicinal practices in order to make sure that the respiratory passage is clean. This happens through its working as an expectorant, lowering the amount of mucus and calming the irritation in the bronchi. Therefore, the consumption of blue pea water becomes functional.
