Blue Tea: A Refreshing and Unique Beverage

# Blue Tea: A Refreshing and Unique Beverage

## What is Blue Tea?

Blue tea, also known as butterfly pea flower tea, is a vibrant herbal infusion made from the petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant. This stunning beverage has been enjoyed for centuries in Southeast Asia and is now gaining popularity worldwide for its unique color and potential health benefits.

## The Origin of Blue Tea

Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, blue tea has been a traditional remedy in Ayurvedic medicine for generations. The butterfly pea flower, which gives the tea its distinctive blue hue, grows abundantly in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

### Why is Blue Tea Blue?

The intense blue color comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants also found in blueberries and blackberries. These natural pigments change color based on pH levels, which explains why adding lemon juice (acidic) turns the tea purple.

## Health Benefits of Blue Tea

Many people enjoy blue tea not just for its appearance but also for its potential health benefits:

– Rich in antioxidants that may help combat free radicals
– May support brain health and cognitive function
– Could help reduce stress and anxiety
– May promote healthy skin and hair
– Contains anti-inflammatory properties

## How to Prepare Blue Tea

Making blue tea is simple and requires just a few steps:

1. Bring water to a boil (about 200°F or 93°C)
2. Add 5-7 dried butterfly pea flowers per cup
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes
4. Strain and enjoy plain or with honey/sweetener

For a fun twist, try adding lemon juice to watch the color change from blue to purple!

## Creative Ways to Enjoy Blue Tea

Beyond drinking it hot or iced, blue tea can be used in various creative ways:

– As a natural food coloring for desserts and cocktails
– Mixed with other teas for unique blends
– In smoothies for a colorful boost
– As a base for refreshing summer drinks

## Where to Find Blue Tea

Blue tea is becoming more widely available in:

– Specialty tea shops
– Health food stores
– Online retailers
– Some Asian grocery stores

Look for organic, high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers for the best flavor and color.

## Final Thoughts

Blue tea offers a unique combination of visual appeal, delicate flavor, and potential health benefits. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this vibrant beverage is worth exploring. Its natural color-changing properties make it especially fun to serve to guests or use in creative culinary applications.