Butterfly Pea

Gokarna, scientifically known as Clitoria ternatea, is a powerful medicinal herb valued for its numerous therapeutic properties. Commonly referred to as Butterfly Pea, Blue Pea, or Aprajita, this vibrant blue-flowered plant has been widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Southeast Asian herbal practices.

A key application of Gokarna is in the preparation of Blue Butterfly Tea or Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, a detoxifying, antioxidant-rich herbal infusion that offers multiple health benefits, including improved brain function, enhanced skin health, and digestive support. Similar to Shankhpushpi, another cognitive-enhancing herb, Gokarna is known for its memory-boosting and adaptogenic properties.

Botanical Description

• Botanical Name: Clitoria ternatea

• Family: Fabaceae

• Appearance: A twining herb with striking deep blue flowers, often resembling a butterfly or a conch shell.

• Parts Used: Roots, bark, flowers, and seeds.

• Common Synonyms:

  • English Name: Butterfly Pea, Blue Pea, Clitoria

  • Sanskrit Name: Vishnukranta, Yonipushpa, Girikarnika

  • Hindi Name: Koyala

  • Malayalam Name: Shankhapushpam

  • Telugu Name: Dintena, Sankupushpam

Ayurvedic Properties

• Rasa (Taste): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)

• Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

• Veerya (Potency): Sheeta (Cooling)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (Pungent)

• Effect on Doshas: Balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas

• Main Benefit: Medhya – Enhances memory and cognitive function

Benefits of Gokarna (Butterfly Pea)

1. Brain Health & Memory Enhancement

Gokarna is a renowned nootropic herb that enhances cognitive functions, including memory retention, focus, and learning ability. Try: Drinking Butterfly Pea Flower Tea daily can help boost mental clarity.

2. Supports Respiratory Health

This herb is highly effective in treating cough, bronchitis, and asthma due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. It helps clear excess mucus and improves breathing.

3. Promotes Skin & Hair Health

Gokarna is packed with antioxidants that fight skin aging, acne, and pigmentation. When used in hair care, it reduces dandruff, promotes hair growth, and strengthens hair follicles. Tip: Using Butterfly Pea Tea as a natural skin toner or hair rinse enhances shine and texture.

4. Diabetes Management

Research suggests that Gokarna helps regulate blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose absorption in the intestines.

5. Detoxification & Digestive Health

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea acts as a natural detox for the body, improving digestion, preventing bloating, constipation, and indigestion. Tip: Drink Blue Butterfly Tea after meals to aid digestion.

6. Supports Heart Health

Gokarna's antioxidant properties help in reducing oxidative stress, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving blood circulation, making it beneficial for heart health.

7. Boosts Immunity

The antimicrobial properties of Butterfly Pea Tea help strengthen the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and diseases.

How to Use Gokarna

1. Blue Butterfly Tea / Butterfly Pea Flower Tea

Ingredients:

• 1-2 teaspoons of dried Butterfly Pea Flowers

• 1 cup hot water

• Lemon or honey (optional)

Directions:

• Steep dried flowers in hot water for 5 minutes.

• Strain and enjoy Blue Butterfly Tea.

• Add lemon to change color from blue to purple.

2. Herbal Extracts & Capsules

Gokarna extracts and supplements are available as capsules and tinctures, offering a concentrated dose of bioactive compounds.

3. Topical Applications

Gokarna-infused oils and pastes can be applied to skin and scalp to promote healing and nourishment.

4. Culinary Uses

Gokarna flowers are used in desserts, smoothies, and herbal drinks for their health benefits and vibrant color.

Recommended Dosage

Precautions & Side Effects

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

• Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.

• People with medical conditions should seek professional advice before using Gokarna supplements.

FAQs

1. Can I drink Butterfly Pea Tea every day?
Yes, Blue Butterfly Tea is safe for daily consumption in moderate amounts.

2. What happens when you add lemon to Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Adding lemon juice changes the tea’s color from deep blue to purple, due to a natural pH reaction.

3. Is Butterfly Pea Tea good for detox?
Yes, Butterfly Pea Tea is rich in antioxidants and supports natural detoxification.

4. Can Butterfly Pea Flower Tea help with weight loss?
Yes, its metabolism-boosting properties may support weight management.

Conclusion

Gokarna (Clitoria ternatea), commonly known as Butterfly Pea, is a powerful Ayurvedic herb with numerous health benefits. Whether enjoyed as Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, used as a natural skin treatment, or taken as an herbal supplement, it offers antioxidant, cognitive, and detoxification benefits. Embrace the natural healing power of this vibrant blue flower and incorporate it into your daily wellness routine.

References

1. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

2. Research on Clitoria ternatea and its medicinal properties

3. Studies on Butterfly Pea Tea's impact on cognitive function and detoxification