Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: The Color-Changing Magic Tea
Discover butterfly pea flower tea - the stunning blue tea that changes color with pH. Learn about its benefits, brewing methods, and the science behind its color-changing properties.
12 min read•Published September 26, 2025
QUICK ANSWER
Butterfly pea flower tea is an herbal tisane made from deep blue petals that dramatically change color based on pH - from brilliant blue to purple to pink when you add lemon juice. Native to Southeast Asia, these vibrant flowers create a zero-caffeine drink with mild, earthy flavor.
The color change is due to anthocyanins (ternatin compounds) that act as natural pH indicators, changing structure and color based on acidity levels.
Watch your tea transform from brilliant blue to purple to pink - this isn't magic, it's the fascinating science of butterfly pea flowers.
What is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
01Butterfly pea flower tea, also known as blue tea or Asian pigeonwings, is an herbal tisane made from the deep blue petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant. Native to tropical Asia, these vibrant flowers have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, cooking, and as a natural food coloring.
What makes this tea extraordinary isn't just its stunning cobalt blue color - it's the dramatic color transformation that occurs when you change its pH. Add lemon juice and watch it turn purple, then pink. It's like having a chemistry experiment in your teacup!
In Thailand, it's called "nam dok anchan" and is commonly served as a welcome drink in hotels and spas. The flowers are also used to color rice, desserts, and cocktails throughout Southeast Asia.
Traditional Names
- Thailand: Nam dok anchan
- India: Aparajita (one who cannot be defeated)
- Malaysia: Bunga Telang
- Vietnam: Đậu biếc
The Science Behind the Color Change
02The color change is due to anthocyanins - specifically ternatin compounds that give the flowers their intense blue color. These molecules are natural pH indicators that change structure (and therefore color) based on the acidity of their environment.
The pH Color Spectrum
| pH Level | Color | Example Additions |
|---|---|---|
| pH 7-8 (Neutral to Alkaline) | Deep blue to turquoise | Plain water, baking soda |
| pH 5-6 (Slightly Acidic) | Purple to violet | Mild fruit juices |
| pH 3-4 (Acidic) | Pink to magenta | Lemon juice, lime |
| pH 2 (Very Acidic) | Red | Strong citric acid |
Color Control Tips
To Keep It Blue:
- Use neutral or alkaline water
- Add a tiny pinch of baking soda
- Mix with coconut water
- Serve plain without additives
To Make It Pink/Purple:
- Add lemon or lime juice
- Mix with hibiscus tea
- Add citric acid
- Combine with acidic fruit juices
This same property makes butterfly pea flowers useful as a natural litmus test in science education and as a pH indicator in traditional medicine practices.
Health Benefits and Traditional Uses
03While scientific research is still emerging, butterfly pea flowers have been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Asian medicine for centuries. The flowers are rich in anthocyanins, particularly ternatin, which are powerful antioxidants.
Traditional Uses vs Modern Research
| Traditional Uses | Potential Benefits (Under Study) |
|---|---|
| Memory and brain function support | Antioxidant properties |
| Stress and anxiety reduction | May support cognitive function |
| Hair and skin health | Possible anti-inflammatory effects |
| Eye health (Thai medicine) | May help with relaxation |
| Natural food coloring | Could support healthy skin |
Important Note
While butterfly pea flower has a long history of traditional use, most health claims need more scientific research. Always consult healthcare providers about using herbal remedies.
Nutritional Highlights
- Contains 15x more anthocyanins than blueberries
- Zero caffeine - suitable for any time of day
- Rich in proanthocyanidin and flavonoids
- Natural source of ternatin compounds
How to Brew Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
04Basic Hot Brewing Method
- Use 5-7 dried flowers (or 1 teaspoon) per 8oz water
- Heat water to 195-212°F (90-100°C)
- Steep for 5-10 minutes (longer = deeper blue)
- Strain and serve hot or over ice
- Add lemon for color change (optional)
Alternative Brewing Methods
| Method | Instructions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Brew | 10-15 flowers in 16oz cold water, refrigerate 4-12 hours | Summer drinks, smoother taste |
| Concentrate | Double flowers, steep 15 minutes in hot water | Cocktails, mixed drinks |
| Fresh Flowers | 3-5 fresh flowers, steep 3-5 minutes | When available, more delicate |
Pro Brewing Tips
- Water matters: Hard water may affect color intensity
- Fresh vs dried: Fresh flowers need less steeping time
- Steep longer: For deeper blue, steep up to 15 minutes
- Ice preservation: Freeze tea in ice cubes for color-changing drinks
- Gradual change: Add citrus slowly for gradient effect
Creative Ways to Enjoy Butterfly Pea Tea
05Popular Preparations
Color-Changing Lemonade
Brew strong butterfly pea tea, chill, and serve in a clear glass. Let guests add their own lemon juice to watch the magic happen. Perfect for parties and Instagram!
Galaxy Latte
Mix butterfly pea concentrate with steamed milk (dairy or plant-based) for a stunning blue latte. Add edible glitter for an out-of-this-world effect.
Mood Ring Cocktail
Use as a base for gin cocktails - the gin's botanicals and citrus garnishes create beautiful color gradients. Particularly stunning with gin & tonic.
Blue Rice (Khao Dok Anchan)
Cook jasmine rice with butterfly pea tea instead of water for naturally blue rice. Traditional in Thai cuisine and stunning on the plate.
Layered Iced Tea
Create Instagram-worthy layers by carefully pouring butterfly pea tea over ice, then slowly adding lemonade to create purple and pink layers.
Flavor Pairings and Blends
06While butterfly pea tea has a mild, earthy flavor on its own, it pairs beautifully with other ingredients:
| Category | Pairings |
|---|---|
| Citrus | Lemon, lime, orange blossom, bergamot, yuzu |
| Floral | Lavender, rose petals, chamomile, jasmine |
| Herbs & Spices | Lemongrass, ginger, mint, vanilla |
| Fruits | Pineapple, mango, passion fruit, lychee |
The mild base flavor makes butterfly pea flowers an excellent canvas for creative blending. The visual appeal often takes center stage, with flavor enhancements adding depth.
Buying and Storing Butterfly Pea Flowers
07What to Look For
- Whole flowers: Deep blue color, intact petals
- Organic certified: Especially important for flowers
- Source: Thailand, Malaysia, or Vietnam are traditional
- Packaging: Light-proof containers preserve color
- Freshness: Should have slight earthy aroma
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Container | Airtight, light-proof container |
| Location | Cool, dry place away from sunlight |
| Temperature | Room temperature or cooler |
| Shelf life | 12-18 months when properly stored |
| Fresh flowers | Refrigerate and use within 3-5 days |
Where to Buy
- Asian grocery stores
- Specialty tea shops
- Online tea retailers
- Health food stores
- Thai/Vietnamese markets
Cultural Significance
08Regional Traditions
Thailand 🇹🇭
Used in traditional Thai medicine for centuries. Often served as a welcome drink and used to make the famous blue rice. The flower appears in Thai art and textiles as a symbol of respect.
India 🇮🇳
In Ayurveda, known as "Aparajita" (one who cannot be defeated). Sacred to Hindu deity Durga. Used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine for memory enhancement.
Malaysia 🇲🇾
Called "Bunga Telang," used in Nasi Kerabu (blue rice dish) and traditional kuih desserts. Important in Peranakan cuisine for natural food coloring.
Fun Facts
- The name comes from the flower's resemblance to butterfly wings (or female genitalia, hence "Clitoria")
- Used as natural hair dye in traditional Thai beauty treatments
- Can be grown as an ornamental vine in warm climates
- In Burma, flowers are dipped in batter and fried as fritters
- Being studied for nootropic (brain-enhancing) properties
- Trendy ingredient in craft cocktail bars worldwide
- Traditional remedy for eye strain in Southeast Asia
Safety and Considerations
Health Considerations
Butterfly pea flower tea is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts. However:
- Pregnancy/Nursing: Limited research - consult healthcare provider
- Blood thinners: May have antiplatelet effects - use caution
- Surgery: Stop use 2 weeks before scheduled surgery
- Allergies: Rare but possible - start with small amounts
- Children: Generally safe but use age-appropriate serving sizes
Whether you're drawn to its stunning visual appeal, potential health benefits, or just want to impress guests with color-changing drinks, butterfly pea flower tea offers a unique experience. This zero-caffeine herbal tisane is perfect for any time of day and provides endless opportunities for creative beverages.
Experience the Magic of Butterfly Pea Tea
Start with a simple hot brew, then experiment with creating your own color-changing masterpieces!