Looking to try something new and exotic? Check out our butterfly pea flower tisane.
Butterfly pea flower tea has been around for eons throughout Asia, but is just now finding its way into North America, becoming quite the trend.
This herbal tea changes colour with each cup, making it quite the visual treat. Changes in the tea’s pH level results in fire red hues or rich purples.
The Tea Is Made From The Petals Of The Butterfly Pea Plant
The butterfly pea plant, known by the botanical name Clitoria ternatea is also known as Asian pigeonwings, blue tea, and blue pea. The tea is naturally caffeine-free and vegan-friendly.
What makes this tea so special is its flavour profile and colour-changing vibrant hue. When the petals are infused in hot water, the plant imparts a stunning, rich blue colour. However, the blue tea liquid changes colour to a bright red or fuchsia when other ingredients such as lemon juice are added. It’s almost like having a mood ring in a cup of tea.
The reason the tea changes colour is because of the effect of new ingredients on the pH level. Lemon slices, because of their higher acidity, results in a purplish hue. Adding something less acidic like hibiscus leaves, as an example, turns the mixture a bright red in just a few seconds.
The colour-changing tea drink features a flavour that is earthy and woody. It has similar notes found in fine green teas and a slightly sweet aroma. The tea is commonly blended with honey, lemon, chamomile and lemongrass. In Thailand, the Thai preparation of the drink — known as Nam Dok Anchan — includes blending the blue petals with honey, cinnamon, mint, and passion fruit.
The tea has been thought of throughout Asia in a medicinal capacity to assist with blood pressure and blood glucose maintenance. It is very relaxing and can certainly be drunk before bed.
