Can You Drink Pea Flower Tea Every Day?

Over 2 billion people worldwide drink tea daily, making it a staple beverage, but how does pea flower tea fit into this routine? Pea flower tea, also known as butterfly pea tea, is generally considered safe for daily consumption in moderation, offering numerous health benefits with minimal risks for most people.

Quick Summary

This article examines the daily consumption of pea flower tea, detailing its antioxidant properties, potential health advantages like improved skin and brain function, and important precautions for certain individuals.

Key Points

• Daily Consumption is Safe: For most healthy adults, drinking pea flower tea daily in moderation is considered safe.

• Rich in Antioxidants: The tea contains potent antioxidants like ternatins and anthocyanins that combat free radicals and inflammation.

• Potential Health Benefits: Regular consumption may boost cognitive function, support skin and hair health, and aid digestion.

• Daily Intake and Side Effects: A moderate intake of 1-2 cups per day is recommended to avoid mild digestive issues like nausea or stomach upset.

• Important Contraindications: Pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals with low blood pressure, and those on specific medications should avoid or consult a doctor before consuming pea flower tea.

• Caffeine-Free Alternative: As a caffeine-free beverage, it is a great alternative to coffee or caffeinated teas, especially for evening consumption.

Is Pea Flower Tea Safe for Daily Consumption?

For most healthy adults, drinking pea flower tea every day is considered safe, provided it is consumed in moderate amounts. It is important to remember that 'moderation' is key, as excessive intake could lead to mild digestive issues. The tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a good choice for any time of day without disrupting sleep patterns. The U.S. FDA has also reviewed and deemed the extract safe for use.

Potential Benefits of Daily Consumption

Regularly consuming pea flower tea can offer several health advantages due to its rich antioxidant content.

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: The vibrant blue flowers contain powerful antioxidants called ternatins, which help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
• Improved cognitive function: The presence of acetylcholine in the tea may enhance memory and support overall brain health.
• Support for skin and hair: The tea promotes collagen and elastin production, which can improve skin elasticity and hydration. Its bioflavonoid, anthocyanin, also increases blood flow to the scalp, supporting hair growth.
• Digestive aid: Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the digestive system, helping with indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
• Support for healthy blood sugar levels: Some studies indicate that the tea may help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting glucose intake.

Recommended Daily Intake

Sources suggest a moderate intake of about 1-2 cups per day is a reasonable guideline. This is equivalent to steeping 1-2 grams of dried flowers in hot water. Overconsumption is the main cause of potential mild side effects, such as nausea or stomach upset.

Side Effects and Contraindications

While generally safe, pea flower tea is not suitable for everyone, and certain precautions should be taken.

Potential Side Effects

• Digestive Discomfort: Overdoing it can lead to mild stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea.
• Allergic Reactions: As with any herbal product, some individuals may have an allergic reaction, which could include itching or swelling.
• Urinary Color Changes: The tea's natural blue pigment, anthocyanin, can sometimes cause harmless changes in urine color, which is not a cause for concern.

Who Should Avoid Pea Flower Tea?

• Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Due to insufficient research and the potential for uterine contractions, it is strongly recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid this tea unless specifically advised by a doctor.
• Individuals with Low Blood Pressure: The tea can have a blood-pressure-lowering effect, so those with low blood pressure should consult a healthcare provider before consumption.
• Those on Specific Medications: Individuals on anticoagulant medications should be cautious, as the tea may affect blood clotting.
• Pre-Surgery Patients: Due to its effects on blood circulation, the tea should be avoided before surgery.

Comparison: Pea Flower Tea vs. Green Tea

Both pea flower and green tea are celebrated for their health benefits, but they have distinct differences.

Feature	Pea Flower Tea	Green Tea
Caffeine Content	Caffeine-free, making it ideal for evening consumption.	Contains caffeine, which can increase alertness but may interfere with sleep.
Antioxidants	Contains ternatins and anthocyanins, which contribute to its distinctive blue color.	Rich in catechins and polyphenols, particularly EGCG, a well-known antioxidant.
Flavor Profile	Mild, earthy flavor, often enhanced with lemon or honey.	Grassy, vegetal, and sometimes slightly bitter taste.
Color-Changing Property	Changes color from blue to purple or pink when an acidic ingredient like lemon is added.	Typically green or yellowish-green and does not change color with pH.
Historical Use	Used in traditional Southeast Asian and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.	Originates from China and is a cornerstone of East Asian tea culture.

How to Incorporate Pea Flower Tea into Your Routine

For those looking to enjoy pea flower tea daily, here are some simple ways to incorporate it into your diet.

• Classic Hot Brew: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy the mild, earthy flavor and watch the striking blue color appear.
• Refreshing Iced Tea: Brew a concentrated batch, let it cool, and pour over ice. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for a color-changing effect and a citrusy twist.
• Vibrant Cocktails: Use the tea as a base for visually stunning cocktails. The pH-reactive color can create a magical effect when mixed with citrus.
• Natural Food Coloring: The extract or a strong brew can be used to color rice, desserts, or smoothies naturally, providing a beautiful blue hue.

Conclusion: A Safe and Beneficial Addition for Most

Ultimately, for most healthy individuals, the answer to 'can you drink pea flower tea every day?' is yes. When consumed in moderation, this herbal tea is a safe and beneficial addition to a daily routine. Its rich antioxidant content supports skin, hair, and cognitive health, while its caffeine-free nature makes it a calming and versatile beverage. However, it is not suitable for everyone, and it is crucial for specific groups, such as pregnant women or those on certain medications, to consult a healthcare provider before regular consumption. By being mindful of these precautions, you can enjoy the vibrant color and health benefits of pea flower tea as part of a balanced diet.

References

• BLUE TEA. (2025). Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: From Health Benefits to Brewing Tips.
• The Tea Spot. (n.d.). All About Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
• The Qi. (2022). 11 Benefits of Drinking Butterfly Pea Tea.
• Megawecare. (2025). Butterfly Pea Flower (Blue Tea): 18 Key Health Benefits.
• Vinmec. (2024). Benefits of butterfly pea flower tea.
• Vinmec. (2024). Benefits of butterfly pea flower tea | Vinmec.
• Thé Paon. (2021). Butterfly pea tea : natural & safe.
• Bump Boxes. (2025). Can You Drink Butterfly Pea Flower Tea During Pregnancy?
• Gopaldhara. (2024). Know the Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Before Drinking.
• PharmEasy. (2024). Butterfly Pea Flower: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!.
• Greatist. (2023). Butterfly Pea Flower: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects.
• BetterMe. (2024). Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Facts, Health Benefits And Side Effects.
• Nelson's Tea. (n.d.). 8 Benefits of Drinking Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.

FDA.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended daily serving of pea flower tea?

Most sources suggest that a moderate daily intake of 1 to 2 cups is safe for most people, which is equivalent to steeping 1 to 2 grams of dried flowers.

Are there any side effects of drinking pea flower tea every day?

While generally safe, excessive consumption could potentially lead to mild digestive issues, such as nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Allergic reactions are also possible in sensitive individuals.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women drink pea flower tea daily?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Due to a lack of research and the potential for uterine contractions, these individuals should avoid it unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Does pea flower tea interact with any medications?

Pea flower tea may interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you are taking any medications before incorporating this tea into your daily routine.

What are the main health benefits of drinking pea flower tea regularly?

Regular consumption can offer numerous benefits, including providing powerful antioxidants, supporting skin and hair health, aiding digestion, and potentially boosting cognitive function.

What happens if you drink too much pea flower tea?

Consuming too much pea flower tea can lead to mild side effects such as digestive upset. It's best to stick to moderate amounts to avoid potential discomfort.

Who should avoid pea flower tea?

Aside from pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals with low blood pressure, those on anticoagulant drugs, and people with a history of plant allergies should avoid or exercise caution when consuming pea flower tea.