Butterfly Pea Flowers: 7 Stunning & Proven Benefits You Need to Know
CategoriesDrinks
Let’s be real for a sec: most of us are just tired of the same ol’ drinks every day. Boring colors, wimpy flavors, nothing wow. Then, bam—I stumbled on these wild blue petals, Butterfly Pea Flowers, and my drinks have never been the same. If you’ve ever wished your kitchen was just a bit more fun (like, five-star restaurant fun), you’re in the right spot. By the way, if you’re craving a sweet treat to go with your new blue tea, check these irresistibly soft chocolate chip cookies you’ll love to bake, or maybe fancy something fruity? Deliciously creamy strawberry cheesecake bars are a game changer.
Description
Okay, first things first: What is this Butterfly Pea Flower thing? Imagine a bright blue flower (kinda looks like something fairies would sip from, no joke) that you can steep into water and poof—your drink turns this magical blue. Steep a bit longer or add a squirt of lemon, and it shifts from blue to purple. Chemistry in a cup!
But here’s the real kicker: It doesn’t just sit there looking pretty. This “blue ternatea” (yup, that’s another name) is packed with good-for-you stuff, gentle flavor, and honestly, people will think you’re a genius in the kitchen. Most of my friends have never even seen it before—major bragging rights.
Additional Information
So, real talk—how do you use it? It’s super easy, promise. Dried butterfly pea flowers are what you want. Toss a handful in hot water, let it steep, and that’s basically it. The flavor? Think mild, sort of earthy. Not too floral, which surprised me.
I like it iced for summer hangouts, but if you’re a “warm mug, blanket, rainy day” type, it works for that, too. One weird thing I tried: butterfly pea lemonade with a tiny bit of honey and a splash of lime. Blew my mind. Oh, and it honestly jazzes up a party punch like nothing else. More ideas? Peek at this deliciously refreshing Moscato punch—a perfect party sip for real crowd-pleasers.
Reviews
People rave about butterfly pea flowers—no kidding. My neighbor, who’s usually suspicious of anything “new age,” called it the “prettiest tea I’ve ever had.” Which, look, hard to argue. My aunt put some in her favorite iced tea and said, “Why didn’t I know about this 20 years ago?” (Fair point.)
“I served butterfly pea flower tea at a book club and even the grumpy members asked for seconds. The color is stunning, and it tastes great with a splash of citrus. Seriously changes up the whole vibe.” – Jess, reader from Atlanta
If you’re on the fence, just try it. Worst case—beautiful Instagram pics. Best case? Your new favorite drink.
Related products
Let’s say you get obsessed (like I did). There are all sorts of uses—coffees, boozy cocktails, fancy mocktails. Some folks even use it in pizza sauce (yes, blue pizza—crazy right?). Before you scoff, check out these fun flavor mash-ups in my top taco pizza heaven post or scroll through all the ideas in the pizza toppings section.
Not a pizza person today? Try mixing butterfly pea flower extract into some fancy party desserts. People will ask you at least three times what’s in it. Sometimes, just changing the color makes simple stuff look totally pro.
Benefits of Blue Ternatea
Alright, so here’s why I’m borderline obsessed:
- Naturally beautiful color—no fake stuff, just pure blue or purple (psst, your drinks will outshine everything else on the table).
- High in antioxidants. So you kinda feel good about sipping it?
- Supposed mood booster. Feels soothing after a rough day, trust me.
- Known for its memory-boosting rep. Who couldn’t use a little mental lift?
- Caffeine-free. No jitters, yay!
- Pairs with a ridiculous variety of flavors—from straight-up lemonade to ginger or even tropical punch.
- It’s “trend-proof.” In other words, you’ll still want it next year.
Try it hot or cold. Add a swirl to your favorite punches (like that Moscato punch I keep raving about). Even as a latte with coconut milk works.
Serving Suggestions:
- Steep in hot water for rich blue tea.
- Squeeze in lemon for a bright purple twist.
- Add to smoothies for a colorful boost.
- Drizzle over ice cream for a wild dessert pop.
Common Questions
Q: Does butterfly pea flower actually taste like anything?
A: It’s pretty mild, a little earthy—doesn’t overpower at all.
Q: Can it stain your teeth or cups?
A: Not really! It rinses away easily. Relieved? Me too.
Q: Any health perks beyond antioxidants?
A: Some folks talk up memory and mood—nothing magic, but worth a try.
Q: Can I add it to carbonated drinks?
A: Sure can. It’s really fun in club soda or a punch.
Q: Where do I find butterfly pea flowers?
A: Health food shops or online. Look for dried petals or even pre-made tea bags.
Why You Absolutely Need To Try Butterfly Pea Flower Drinks This Week
So let’s wrap this up. Butterfly pea flowers make your drinks spectacular—seriously, it’s so much more than blue food coloring. They deliver color pop, a little “wellness” factor, and make your homemade drinks feel like something off a food influencer’s TikTok. If you’re still skeptical, I totally get it (I mean, blue food is not for everyone—see the ScienceDirect thoughts on blue food), but try it once—you’ll see. Plus, the options from Artful Brews + Juice Bar’s blue ternatea are as easy as it gets, and if you want more science, dive into this Oxford blue food discussion.
Give it a go—can’t wait to see what you’ll make!

Butterfly Pea Flower Drink
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A stunning blue drink made from butterfly pea flowers, known for its beauty and mild flavor. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- Handful of dried butterfly pea flowers
- Hot water
- Lemon (optional)
- Honey (optional)
- Lime (optional)
Instructions
- Place a handful of dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water.
- Let it steep for a few minutes until the water turns blue.
- Add lemon juice to change the color to purple, if desired.
- Serve hot or iced.
- For lemonade, mix with honey and a splash of lime.
Notes
Add to smoothies or use in cocktails for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Steeping
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: butterfly pea flower, blue drink, herbal tea, wellness drink