Asian Pigeonwing Flowers (Clitoria Ternatea)
Asian Pigeonwing Flowers (aka Asian Pigeonwings)
Okay, first things first. Before we dive into the amazing benefits of this bold blue beauty, let's talk about the scientific name, Clitoria Ternatea. Clitoria is latin for, well...yes, you guessed it...clitoris. I do wonder sometimes who names certain plants, and this is one of them. Yes, there is a resemblance and clearly there was no better way to describe it. Moving on.
Right, now onto the good stuff. Asian Pigeonwing, or Butterfly Pea, boasts a multitude of benefits. As with most blue flowers and fruits, it is rich in antioxidants. It has been said that it slows down aging and helps improve skin texture. There are beauty products with this flower included for that very reason, so there must be some truth to it. It is said to clean the hair follicles and promote hair growth, slows balding and graying of hair. Although, people pay a lot of money for gray and silver hair so if you got it, flaunt it.
It is said that Butterfly Pea Flower can enhance a person's mood and that it greatly reduces stress. Another benefit is mood enhancement and promotes positivity. Not only that, but it is also said to improve memory. *sign me up*
Butterfly Pea contains anticancer properties which can inhibit cancer cell growth. It is also an anti-inflammatory. So, things like headaches, migraines, joint pain, and swelling, may be helped by drinking its earthy tea.
But wait, there's more.
Drinking Butterfly Pea tea can assist in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol in the blood. As someone on the brink of hypertension, this comes as a welcome surprise. Not only that, but it also helps with regulating sugar levels. From everything I have read on this particular subject, it is safe for diabetics to drink and consume with their medication. That being said, always always speak with your physician before adding any herbs or supplements to be sure that it is the right decision for you.
As if that weren't enough, there is the ability to help with digestion as well. One source I read said that it helps prevent the growth of worms in the gut (Ewww). But also, apparently that's a thing that happens and I was not prepared for that piece of education. You're welcome.
There are several recipes out there on the internet about this flower and after working closely with it for a while, I've even made a tea blend out of it. Paired with Lemongrass and Chamomile, this tea absolutely helps me with better self care and well-being.
It seems to be safe for all individuals, including those who are pregnant. Of course, this is not a replacement for medical care and I am no physician. Please consult your physician if you have questions.