Common Side Effects of Blue Ternate
For most healthy individuals, moderate consumption of blue ternate (or butterfly pea) tea is considered safe. However, excessive amounts can lead to several mild, but notable, side effects [3].
Digestive Discomfort
The most frequently reported side effects associated with overconsumption are related to the digestive system. These can include:
- Nausea: A feeling of sickness or urge to vomit [3].
- Stomach upset: General discomfort or pain in the abdomen [4].
- Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools [3].
Allergic Reactions
Like any food or herbal product, there is a risk of allergic reaction, although it is rare. Symptoms to look out for include itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing [5]. If you experience any of these, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Changes in Urine Color
Some individuals may notice a change in their urine color. This is not a side effect in the traditional sense, but rather a harmless result of the tea's natural blue pigment, or anthocyanins, being processed by the body [6].
Contraindications and At-Risk Groups
Certain individuals should avoid blue ternate or consume it only under medical supervision due to specific health conditions or life stages. Limited research exists in some of these areas, warranting a cautious approach [5].
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant women are strongly advised against consuming blue ternate tea [7]. Some active ingredients in the plant may stimulate uterine contractions, which could be harmful to the developing baby [7]. Due to insufficient research, breastfeeding mothers should also exercise caution and avoid consumption [5].
Individuals with Low Blood Pressure
Blue ternate has properties that can lower blood pressure [8]. Therefore, individuals with existing low blood pressure (hypotension) or those on blood pressure-lowering medications should consult a healthcare provider before consuming it, as it could cause blood pressure to drop to an unsafe level [8].
Those Undergoing Surgery or Menstruating
The tea may increase blood circulation [8]. For this reason, women in their menstrual cycle or individuals with upcoming surgery should avoid it, as it could potentially interfere with blood clotting and increase circulation [8].
People on Anticoagulant Drugs
Due to its potential effects on blood circulation and platelet aggregation, blue ternate is not recommended for people taking anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) [8].
Children
The seeds of the butterfly pea plant can be particularly toxic to children, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [9]. All parts of the plant should be kept away from children.
Comparison: Blue Ternate vs. Green Tea Side Effects
| Feature | Blue Ternate (Butterfly Pea) | Green Tea |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain with overconsumption [3, 4] | Jitters, anxiety, insomnia, stomach upset due to caffeine [10] |
| Main Active Compounds | Anthocyanins, flavonoids, ternatins [4] | Catechins (EGCG), caffeine [11] |
| Caffeine Content | Caffeine-free [4] | Contains caffeine [4] |
| Effect on Blood Pressure | May lower blood pressure [8] | May moderately lower blood pressure, but some sensitive individuals may experience a temporary increase from caffeine [8] |
| Considerations for Pregnancy | Avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding individuals [7] | Limited or avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding individuals due to caffeine [7] |
Safe Consumption Guidelines
To minimize the risk of side effects and ensure safe consumption, follow these guidelines:
- Start with Small Amounts: When first trying blue ternate tea, start with a small amount (e.g., half a cup) to see how your body reacts before increasing your intake. Moderation is key [3].
- Recommended Daily Intake: Most experts suggest limiting consumption to 1–2 cups of tea per day, made from 1–2 grams of dried flowers [8, 5]. Excessive intake is the primary cause of adverse reactions [9].
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Always speak with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional before incorporating blue ternate into your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking any medications [5].
- Use the Flowers, Not the Seeds: The seeds of the Clitoria ternatea plant are known to be particularly toxic and should never be consumed [9].
Conclusion
While blue ternate is generally well-tolerated and offers various potential health benefits, it is not without potential side effects, particularly when consumed in excessive quantities. The most commonly reported issues are mild digestive disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea [3]. Crucially, specific groups, including pregnant women, those with low blood pressure, and individuals on certain medications, should exercise significant caution or avoid it entirely due to potential health risks and limited research [8, 7]. The key to safely enjoying this vibrant, caffeine-free herbal tea is moderation and informed consideration of your personal health circumstances [5]. As with any new supplement, a medical consultation is the safest first step. For more details on the FDA's safety assessment of butterfly pea flower extract, see their official documentation.
