Butterfly pea flower, also known as Clitoria ternatea, is a flowering plant with striking blue flowers. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also have various health benefits and are used in culinary creations, especially refreshing beverages.
Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower
Rich in Antioxidants
Butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give its flowers their distinctive blue color. These antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, which can prevent various chronic diseases.
Improves Brain Health
Traditionally used in medicine to enhance brain health, consuming butterfly pea flower tea regularly is said to improve cognitive function and memory.
Aids Digestion
Butterfly pea flower possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive system and alleviate issues like inflammation and irritation.
Culinary Creations with Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Butterfly pea flower tea is one of the most popular ways to enjoy this flower. Here’s a simple way to make butterfly pea flower tea:
Ingredients: 5-7 dried or fresh butterfly pea flowers 1 cup hot water Honey or lemon (optional) Instructions: Steep butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Strain the flowers from the water. Add honey or lemon to taste. Enjoy the refreshing blue tea!
Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade
Butterfly pea flower lemonade is not only refreshing but also visually stunning. The blue color from the butterfly pea flower turns purple when lemon is added.
Ingredients: 1 cup butterfly pea flower tea Juice from 1 lemon 1-2 tablespoons sugar Ice cubes Instructions: Mix butterfly pea flower tea with lemon juice. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Serve with ice cubes for a refreshing sensation.
Butterfly Pea Flower Infused Water
Butterfly pea flower infused water is another healthy beverage option that’s easy to make.
Ingredients: 5-7 butterfly pea flowers 1 liter water Slices of fruit (lemon, orange, or mint) Instructions: Place butterfly pea flowers and fruit slices into water. Chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. Enjoy the colorful and refreshing infused water!
Natural Color Wonders
Amazing Color Changes
One of the unique features of butterfly pea flower is its ability to change color. The natural blue color of these flowers can turn into purple or pink when acidic ingredients like lemon are added. This phenomenon is due to pH changes that affect the anthocyanins in butterfly pea flowers.
Uses in Food and Beverages
Aside from beverages, butterfly pea flower is also used as a natural food coloring in various dishes, from blue rice to cakes and ice creams. The blue color produced by these flowers is safe to consume and enhances the visual appeal of dishes.
Cultivation and Care of Butterfly Pea Flower
Growing Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea flower is easy to grow and requires minimal care. Here are the basic steps to grow butterfly pea flower:
Ingredients: Butterfly pea flower seeds Pot or open land Fertile soil with good drainage Instructions: Soak butterfly pea flower seeds in water for a few hours before planting. Plant seeds about 1 cm deep in fertile soil. Water regularly and ensure they get sufficient sunlight. Butterfly pea flower usually starts blooming within 2-3 months.
Caring for Butterfly Pea Flower
Butterfly pea flower doesn’t require intensive care. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Pruning can also be done to stimulate more flower growth.
Butterfly pea flower is not just a beautiful plant but also offers various health benefits and culinary wonders. Refreshing beverages made from butterfly pea flower not only quench thirst but also provide remarkable health benefits. With its natural color uniqueness and ability to change hues, butterfly pea flower is the perfect choice for a variety of beverage and food creations. Start experimenting with different butterfly pea flower drink recipes and enjoy the natural wonders they offer!
