Blue Butterfly Tea: More Than a Pretty Brew - Here’s What It Actually Does for Your Body

You’ve probably seen it swirling on Instagram—deep sapphire hues that turn violet with a squeeze of lemon. It’s Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, and while its colour alone feels magical, there’s far more to this ancient flower than meets the eye.

At Bondi Beach Tea Co., we’re big believers in celebrating nature’s beauty and its healing power. So, let’s take a closer look at what this vivid herbal tea actually does for your body—based on traditional use, modern science, and your own wellness needs.

What is Butterfly Pea Flower?

Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea) is a vibrant blue flower native to Southeast Asia. For centuries, it's been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Thai medicine as a healing plant—especially valued for its cognitive, visual, and circulatory benefits.

In traditional use, it’s been brewed to:

• Support memory and mental clarity
• Treat eye conditions
• Soothe anxiety and fatigue
• Promote strong, healthy hair

Its deep colour comes from anthocyanins—powerful antioxidants also found in blueberries and purple cabbage.

What Does the Research Say?

Modern research is beginning to confirm what ancient practices have long known. Here's what science currently supports:

1. It’s Packed with Antioxidants

Butterfly pea flower is rich in anthocyanins, especially ternatins, which give it its striking colour and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
→ According to a 2019 study in the Journal of Functional Foods, ternatins help reduce oxidative stress in cells and support cardiovascular health.

2. Supports Cognitive Function

Animal studies have shown that Clitoria ternatea may enhance memory and learning.
→ In a 2013 paper published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers found the extract enhanced acetylcholine levels in the brain—a key neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning.

3. Soothes Stress & Anxiety

Traditionally used as a calming herb, Butterfly Pea Flower has mild adaptogenic properties, helping to calm the nervous system without sedation.
→ Anecdotal and early-stage research shows its potential to reduce cortisol and promote a sense of calm, similar to ashwagandha or tulsi.

4. Promotes Healthy Skin & Hair

Thanks to its rich antioxidant profile, Blue Butterfly Tea may help protect skin cells and support collagen structure.
→ Ternatins may also stimulate keratin production for stronger, healthier hair over time.

Wait… Why Does It Turn Purple with Lemon?

This colour change is more than just fun—it’s chemistry!
The tea is naturally alkaline, but when you add lemon (which is acidic), the pH shift causes the blue anthocyanins to turn violet or pink.

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It’s one of nature’s most delightful party tricks—and a great way to impress your friends, even if you're just sipping solo on your porch.

How to Brew & Use It

You can enjoy Blue Butterfly Tea:

• Hot or iced
• With a squeeze of lemon
• Blended into lattes (try coconut or oat milk!)
• Infused into cocktails, mocktails or herbal syrups
• As a natural food dye for baking or smoothies

Bonus: It’s 100% caffeine-free—so it’s perfect for any time of day.

At Bondi Beach Tea Co., we’re all about functional beauty. This tea isn’t just about pretty colours—it’s about feeling good, staying balanced, and reconnecting with the healing power of nature.

Whether you’re sipping for stress relief, antioxidant support, or simply to enjoy the colour-changing magic, Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is one of the most enchanting (and effective) brews we offer.

Explore our Premium Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea—whole blossoms, organically grown, and ready to calm your system and delight your senses. Shop Now