Introduction
Butterfly pea flower tea isn’t just Instagram-worthy—it’s a mindful ritual in every cup. With its striking sapphire hue and subtle earthy notes, this caffeine-free infusion has been treasured in traditional medicine for its calming and brain-boosting benefits.
At Calm Cup, we believe every sip should nourish your body and soothe your mind. Whether you love it warm and comforting or chilled and refreshing, the secret to a perfect brew lies in the technique. Done right, you’ll preserve its vibrant colour, delicate flavour, and potent antioxidants.
What Is Butterfly Pea Tea?
| Aspect | Details |
| Botanical Name | Clitoria ternatea |
| Common Names | Butterfly pea tea, Blue tea, Aparajita (India), Asian pigeonwings |
| Part Used | Dried or fresh flower petals |
| Origin | Tropical Southeast Asian herb with roots in Ayurveda and Thai wellness |
| Taste Profile | Mild, earthy, slightly woody, floral finish |
| Colour | Deep blue when brewed; turns purple with citrus (pH reaction) |
| Caffeine Content | Naturally caffeine-free |
What makes it special? Anthocyanins—the same antioxidants found in blueberries—give it the stunning blue colour and help detoxify, calm the mind, and reduce inflammation.
Origins of Butterfly Pea Tea
Butterfly pea tea comes from the Clitoria ternatea flower, a plant native to Southeast Asia and cherished in cultures across Thailand and beyond. Known as Nam Dok Anchan in Thai culture, it’s often served in spas and infused with honey, lemon, and herbs like mint or ginger.
In Malaysia, it colours rice and desserts naturally, while in India’s Ayurveda, it’s revered for balancing the three doshas and promoting overall vitality. Today, butterfly pea tea remains a timeless herbal tonic, blending tradition with modern wellness rituals.
How to Brew Hot Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Ingredients:
1–2 teaspoons Calm Cup Butterfly Pea Tea
1 cup (240 ml) hot water (90–95°C)
Optional: honey, fresh lemon juice, ginger
Brewing Instructions:
Heat water to just below boiling.
Add tea petals to a teapot or cup.
Pour hot water over the petals.
Cover & steep for 10–15 mins (longer = richer colour).
Strain & serve.
Add honey or a squeeze of lemon for a colour-changing effect.
📌 Longer steeping won’t make it bitter—only more vibrant and antioxidant-rich.
How to Make Iced Butterfly Pea Tea
Ingredients:
1–2 teaspoons Calm Cup Butterfly Pea Tea
1 cup water
Ice cubes
Optional: lemon juice, mint leaves, cucumber slices, berries
Cold Brew Method:
Brew a strong hot tea (double the petals).
Cool to room temperature.
Pour over ice.
Add lemon juice for a purple gradient.
Garnish with mint or berries.
📌 Mix with lemon juice, agave, and sparkling water for a butterfly pea lemonade detox drink.
Storage & Serving Tips for Butterfly Pea Tea
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Store dried petals in an airtight container | Prevents oxidation and colour fading |
| Refrigerate brewed tea | Keeps fresh for up to 2 days |
| Add lemon juice just before serving | Enhances visual effect and vitamin C content |
| Use as a smoothie base | Boosts antioxidants and hydration |
| Avoid boiling petals directly | Preserves colour and phytonutrients |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | How It Helps |
| Rich in antioxidants | Protects cells from oxidative stress |
| Skin & hair health | May support collagen synthesis and hair strength |
| Eye health | Linked to reducing strain and supporting vision enzymes |
| Mood-calming | Traditionally used to ease anxiety and stress |
| Cognitive support | Contains acetylcholine, associated with better memory |
| Anti-inflammatory | May help lower internal inflammation |
| Blood sugar balance | Emerging research suggests glucose-regulation support |
Creative Ways to Enjoy Butterfly Pea Tea
Colour-changing cocktails or mocktails for parties
Smoothie bowls with a pop of natural blue
Butterfly pea latte with steamed milk or coconut milk
Blue rice or noodles – a Thai culinary classic
Natural food colouring for baking and desserts
📌 Blend with hibiscus for a vibrant purple detox tea or lemongrass for a refreshing citrus twist.
Finding the Best Butterfly Pea Tea in India
At the Calm Cup, we believe wellness starts at the root—literally. That’s why we grow our own butterfly pea flowers on trusted farms, ensuring every petal is nurtured naturally and harvested with care. From farm to cup, our process preserves the vibrant colour, delicate aroma, and wellness benefits of this beautiful herb. Each batch is rigorously tested for purity, so you can sip a brew that’s 100% natural, fresh, and full of goodness.
FAQs
1. Does butterfly pea tea have any side effects?
It’s generally safe for most people. However, excessive consumption may cause nausea in rare cases. Always start with 1 cup a day and see how your body responds.
2. Can I drink butterfly pea tea on an empty stomach?
Yes, you can. It’s gentle on the stomach and caffeine-free, making it a great morning or evening drink.
3. Does butterfly pea tea contain sugar?
No, it’s naturally sugar-free. You can sweeten it with honey or a healthy alternative like agave if you prefer a sweet flavour.
4. Is butterfly pea tea safe for kids?
It’s generally safe in small amounts, but consult your pediatrician before giving it to children, especially under 5 years old.
Conclusion
Butterfly pea flower tea is more than a trending drink—it’s a mindful wellness experience. Whether you enjoy it steaming hot or ice-cold, the way you brew matters for maximum colour, taste, and health benefits.
With Calm Cup’s premium butterfly pea tea, every sip brings you closer to calm, clarity, and natural vitality—one beautiful cup at a time.