Latin Name: Clitoria Ternatea

Characteristics: Light, Dry

Taste: Pungent, Bitter, Astringent

Traditional Uses: Skin support, Digestive support, Nootropic, Nervous System support, Promotes Hair Growth

Butterfly pea flower, scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea, possesses various herbal properties that have been recognized and utilized in traditional medicine systems across various cultures. Here’s a description of its herbal properties:

• Antioxidant: Butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and flavonoids. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
• Anti-inflammatory: Compounds found in butterfly pea flowers exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation. This property is beneficial for alleviating symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, gastritis, and skin inflammation.
• Adaptogenic: In traditional medicine, the butterfly pea flower is sometimes considered an adaptogen. Adaptogens are herbs or substances that help the body adapt to physical and psychological stressors, thereby promoting overall resilience and well-being.
• Nootropic: Some research suggests that butterfly pea flower may have nootropic properties, meaning it may enhance cognitive function, memory, and concentration. This could be attributed to its antioxidant content and potential effects on neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
• Anxiolytic: Butterfly pea flower has been traditionally used as a calming herb and is believed to have anxiolytic properties, meaning it may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This effect is thought to be due to certain bioactive compounds that interact with neurotransmitter systems in the brain.
• Diuretic: The herbal properties of butterfly pea flower include diuretic effects, which may promote increased urine production and help flush out excess fluids and toxins from the body. This property is beneficial for supporting kidney function and maintaining fluid balance.
• Antimicrobial: Some studies have shown that butterfly pea flower extracts exhibit antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi. This property can be helpful in traditional medicine for treating infections and promoting overall immune health.
• Hepatoprotective: Butterfly pea flower may have hepatoprotective properties, meaning it can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, or other harmful substances. This property is valuable for supporting liver function and detoxification processes in the body.

Butterfly Pea Flower & Skin

Butterfly pea flower is the main ingredient in blue matcha, which is said to have potential benefits for the skin. This is because butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds. Here are some reasons why butterfly pea flower is believed to be good for the skin:

• Antioxidant Protection: Butterfly pea flower contains a high concentration of antioxidants, including anthocyanins and quercetin. These antioxidants help combat free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and contribute to premature aging, fine lines, and wrinkles.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The compounds in butterfly pea flower, especially anthocyanins, possess anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce skin inflammation and redness caused by environmental factors, allergies, or skin conditions like acne and eczema.
• Collagen Support: The antioxidants present in butterfly pea flowers may support collagen production. Collagen is a protein that maintains skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration. By promoting collagen synthesis, butterfly pea flowers can contribute to smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
• UV Protection: Some research suggests that the antioxidants in butterfly pea flowers may offer some protection against UV-induced skin damage. While not a replacement for sunscreen, these antioxidants can help mitigate the effects of sun exposure.
• Hydration and Moisture: The flavonoids in butterfly pea flower may help improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture. This can result in better hydration levels, leading to plumper and healthier-looking skin.
• Natural Astringent: Butterfly pea flower has natural astringent properties, which can help tighten and tone the skin. This can be particularly beneficial for minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores and promoting an even complexion.
• Brightening Effects: When used topically on the skin, the flower’s natural pigments can contribute to a temporary brightening effect. This can help reduce the appearance of dullness and give the skin a radiant glow.

If you’re considering incorporating butterfly pea flower products into your skincare routine, it’s a good idea to do a patch test first and consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns or conditions. Overall, the butterfly pea flower possesses a diverse range of herbal properties that contribute to its potential health benefits.