The butterfly pea flower is scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea. This plant has distinctive bright blue and purple flowers, funnel-shaped petals and a butterfly-shaped crown. No one would have thought that this flower, which is often used as an ornamental plant, actually has health benefits. What are the benefits, see the following explanation.
1. Good for brain health
Butterfly pea flowers contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, which are good for repairing body cells, including nerve cells. Not only that, butterfly pea flowers are also known to increase the production of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that plays a role in the process of remembering, learning information and maintaining concentration.
2. Helps improve mood
Drinking butterfly pea flower tea is believed to have a stress-relieving effect which also helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is also known to invigorate the brain, increase energy levels and stamina, influence positive emotions and can increase productivity at work.
3. Prevents hair loss and stimulates hair growth
butterfly pea flowers contain bioflavonoids and anthocyanins, compounds known to increase blood circulation in the head and can maintain a healthy scalp and can overcome hair loss and reduce the appearance of gray hair.
4. Contains antioxidants
In a study entitled the International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers concluded that the methanol extract in butterfly pea flowers has the potential to be a source of antioxidants. The content of flavon
oids, anthocyanins and phenolic compounds in butterfly pea flowers is also beneficial for activating the role of antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants are useful to help protect cells and reduce oxidative stress which can cause premature aging and other chronic diseases.
5. Reduces inflammation
Butterfly pea flowers contain around 51-52% oleic acid. Usually, these good fatty acids are found in olive oil. Several studies state that oleic acid is able to reduce inflammation or is anti-inflammatory which can reduce infections and swelling, such as body aches, migraines, wound infections and headaches.
6. Reduces the risk of hypertension and heart disease
If you have high blood pressure, there’s no harm in trying butterfly pea flowers because they are useful for lowering blood pressure. The reason is because anthocyanin compounds can also help reduce arterial stiffness. The stiffer the arteries, the harder it is for blood to flow, resulting in high blood pressure. It also increases the risk of developing heart disease.
Single petal Butterfly pea flower
Single petal butterfly pea flower plant
Stacked ( double) petal butterfly pea flower