Aparajita
Aparajita (Butterfly Pea Flower) Clitoria triangulata is the species that produces this vibrant blue or white flower. It’s also known as Asian pigeon wings or Aparajita in Ayurveda. The unassuming creeper is a member of the Fabaceae family (legume), and has been used in traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda, for its health, cognitive, wellness, and beauty benefits.
Its popularity has increased in recent years due to the stunning blue tea, its natural food coloring properties, and its versatility as a skincare and haircare product.
Aparajita Plant Profile and Traditional Roots
- Scientific name: Clitoria ternatea (synonym Clitoria ternatea L.)
- Family: Fabaceae
- Description: A climber or trailing herb that has pinnate (5-7 leaflets) leaves and funnel-shaped flowers ranging in color from deep blue to pinkish or white. Traditional Ayurvedic status
- In classical Ayurvedic texts, Aparajita is often referred to as Aparajita and described in conjunction with medhya rasayana (herbs beneficial for the mind/brain).
- Adaptogen, used in formulations to treat memory disorders, nervous system disorders and other conditions.
- Modern interest: Aside from its traditional uses, research has highlighted its anti-inflammatory potential, antioxidant properties, neuroprotective qualities, hypoglycaemic effects, and cosmetic benefits.
Key Phytochemicals & Mechanisms of Action
Aparajita’s bioactive components are key to understanding its effectiveness.
- Anthocyanins, especially delphinidin (and derivatives), are powerful antioxidants and give blue color to the food.
- Proanthocyanidins: important for skin/hair and cognitive benefits.
- Other compounds include taraxerol (taraxerone), b-sitosterol (kaempferol) and others.
- Mechanistically:
- Antioxidant activity: neutralises free radicals and reduces oxidative stresses.
- Tonics that calm the nervous system and support resilience to stress.
- Neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement via cholinergic modulation (acetylcholine support).
- Anti-glycation, collagen enhancement, and improved microcirculation are all used to improve the skin/hair.
- Hypoglycaemic effect supporting blood sugar balance
Health Benefits of Aparajita Flower (Butterfly Pea Flower)
1. Support for the Nervous System & Cognitive Function
Aparajita is used in traditional medicine as a tonic for the brain, or medhya Rasayana. It can improve memory, alertness and concentration.
Recent reviews have noted improved memory and learning in animal models when using Clitoria trinatea.
This herb also has adaptogenic and calming properties, which can help reduce anxiety, stress, and mental fatigue.
2. Skin, hair & beauty benefits
Aparajita is a powerful beauty aid because of its antioxidant and anti-glycation qualities. You can use it for example:
- It helps maintain skin elasticity, and reduces signs of ageing.
- It can help even skin tone, reduce redness/inflammation, and promote a natural glow.
- For hair: It can reduce premature graying and promote circulation in the scalp. You can also use it as a hair rinse to add shine.
3. Metabolic & Cardiovascular Support
- Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory substances and healthy cholesterol and blood pressure can be maintained by consuming antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Studies have shown that it has hypoglycaemic effects (lowering blood sugar), suggesting its role in type 2 diabetes and blood sugar imbalances.
- This product may help to support weight loss and metabolism through detoxification and gut health.
4. Benefits for Digestive, Immune and Anti-Inflammatory Functions
- The plant and flower parts contain anti-inflammatory substances that can help with chronic inflammation, stomach disturbances, bloating, and mild constipation.
- Its antibacterial/antiviral and immunity-boosting potential are also noted in modern sources.
5. Culinary and Functional Use
- The blue color of the petals can be used to dye food (teas, desserts and rice, for example). ).
- Tea itself is visually appealing (changes color with the addition of lemon!) The tea itself has many functional benefits, including caffeine-free, calming and detoxifying.
Aparajita: How to use it in daily life
Aparajita can be incorporated into your daily routine in a variety of ways.
Aparajita Tea & Infusion
- Brew 5-10 dried flower in hot water, for 5-7 mins. Strain and enjoy. Add lemon/honey if desired.
- Drink it in the morning to boost antioxidants or at night for a calming effect.
Natural Colors & Culinary Use
- Use petals/infusion for colouring rice dishes, cocktails, desserts, cakes.
- Use lemon acid to change the color of blue to purple.
Beauty & Hair uses
- Face mask: Combine powdered flowers with yogurt/honey to get a glowing skin.
- Hair rinse: Use after shampooing to add shine and improve scalp health.
Powder or Supplement
- Add the powder or extract to smoothies, cereals, or herbal blends as a cognitive, antioxidant, and metabolic support.
Planting / Home Use
- It’s ornamental as well as functional. Some texts mention the Vastu/spiritual benefit of planting at home.
Safety, precautions & contraindications
- When used in normal quantities for cooking or herbs, it is generally considered safe.
- In sensitive individuals, excessive consumption may cause mild stomach upsets, nausea or diarrhea.
- Limitations in data on pregnancy/lactation – avoid or consult a practitioner if you are pregnant or nursing.
- It is important to note that this remedy does not replace medical treatment. If you are on medication or have a serious condition, check with your healthcare provider.
Why choose Aparajita? The Unique Selling Points
- Dual Benefit: Supports mind/brain, (cognition and memory) , as well as body (skin (metabolism, immune system),.
- Natural color & Functional Food: Combines aesthetic appeal (natural colour) with functional benefits — a rare combination.
- Ayurveda and modern science is rooted in ancient wisdom , and is increasingly supported by phytochemical research.
- Versatility Can be used as a hair or skin rinse, applied topically. It is suitable for use in wellness, beauty, culinary, and therapeutic contexts.
Conclusion Butterfly Pea Flower
Aparajita, a blue-flowered plant (Clitoriaternatea), is a true “jack of all trades” when it comes to wellness. This remarkable herb has many benefits, including enhancing memory, calming the nervous, and supporting heart health, skin radiance and culinary delight. It can improve your health in many ways when used with mindfulness and a healthy lifestyle.
Aparajita is a great addition to any kitchen or wellness shelf. It’s a natural mind-tonic as well as a beauty boosting herbal. Start with the tea and experiment with food coloring infusions. You can also make a DIY hair or face mask.
