Tag: Cyclotides

While the vibrant blue hue of blue ternate (butterfly pea flower) has long been used as a natural food dye in Southeast Asia, recent scrutiny from regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has raised questions about its safety, especially in high amounts or as a regular herbal infusion. This article explores the evidence to answer whether is blue ternate safe to consume and under what circumstances.

According to scientific reviews, the butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) contains a rich profile of bioactive compounds that contribute to its celebrated medicinal properties and vibrant blue hue. These compounds include a complex mix of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and cyclic peptides, each offering unique biological activities. The remarkable and well-documented benefits of this flower stem directly from this potent phytochemical composition.