The ‘special’ kind of tea might look strange compared to your normal brew – but it’s packed with major health benefits
Many tea drinkers rarely branch out from their regular cup of tea, but for those willing to try something new, there are dozens of health benefits to one ‘special’ kind of tea. The strange-looking beverage could help offset certain health problems like diabetes, high cholesterol and Alzheimer’s.
Originating in southern Asia, ‘blue tea’ is an herbal infusion more commonly known as butterfly pea. It gets its distinctive colour from the anthocyanins – which are natural pigments found in a few of the flowers that make up the unique blend.
If the colour is putting you off, don’t worry, as the taste is not as strange as it looks. According to those who’ve tried this vibrant drink, ‘blue tea’ has a taste described as being “slightly earthy, floral, and mildly sweet”.
It is a caffeine-free beverage, so long as nothing is added to the herbal blend. Whilst it may not provide a slight energising kick, if you start to include this in your diet, you’ll notice heaps of other benefits for years to come, according to research.
Experts claim that ‘blue tea’, which is practically calorie-free, is loaded with helpful antioxidants. These wipe out harmful free radicals that can eventually lead to certain diseases like diabetes and certain types of cancer.
A cup of ‘blue tea’ may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes, making it beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes or at risk of developing the condition. Drinking blue tea may boost your heart health by improving blood pressure and slashing ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels.
Studies have suggested that the extract used to make this blend of herbal tea could help lower high blood pressure. This is because it can help widen blood vessels and enhance blood flow.
The research also found that the extract could promote antithrombotic effects. Experts claim that this could prevent the formation of blood clots , which therefore means a decreased chance of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Blue butterfly pea tea may aid in weight loss by promoting a sense of fullness, improving digestion, and providing antioxidants that can boost metabolism. Studies in animals suggest that butterfly pea extract may improve memory and prevent further memory loss in Alzheimer’s Disease.
Cosmetic manufacturers boast about butterfly pea flowers’ effectiveness in everything from skin care serums to hair mists and shampoos. According to a 2021 study, butterfly pea extract may increase your skin hydration by 70% after just an hour of being applied to your skin.
Blue tea is generally safe to consume in moderation, although it may lead to some discomfort if consumed in high amounts. Some people have reported feelings of nausea, stomach ache and diarrhoea. Speak to your doctor first to check you are suitable for the tea, especially if you are taking certain medication.
