Blue Butterfly Pea Tea: The Facts Behind Its Colour, Caffeine, and More

Blue Butterfly Pea Tea isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with natural compounds that make it both visually striking and beneficial. But what exactly gives it that deep blue colour? Why does it change when you add lemon? And is it caffeine-free? Let’s break it down.

What Makes Blue Butterfly Pea Tea Blue?

The blue colour comes from anthocyanins, natural pigments found in the petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant (aka butterfly pea flower). Anthocyanins are the same compounds that give blueberries, blackberries, and red cabbage their rich colors. In butterfly pea flowers, they’re especially concentrated, which is why the tea brews such a vivid blue.

Why Does the Colour Change?

If you add lemon juice or another acid to Blue Butterfly Pea Tea, you’ll see it shift from blue to purple or even pink. This happens because anthocyanins react to changes in pH levels:

• In a neutral or alkaline environment (like plain water), the tea stays blue.
• When acid is introduced (like lemon juice), the pH drops, altering the anthocyanins’ structure and turning the tea purple, or even pink.

This reaction is completely natural, and it's the same process that causes some flowers and fruits to change colour as they ripen, or when they're exposed to different soils.

Is It All-Natural?

Yes. The colour-changing effect is purely the result of natural plant compounds reacting to acidity—no artificial dyes or additives involved. That’s why butterfly pea flowers are often used as a natural food and drink colourant.

Is Blue Butterfly Pea Tea Caffeine-Free?

Yes, it’s 100% caffeine-free. Unlike black, green, or oolong tea, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant and contain caffeine, Blue Butterfly Pea Tea is an herbal infusion made from dried flower petals. It won’t give you a caffeine buzz, making it a great option for:

• Drinking in the evening without disrupting sleep (it actually improves it)
• People sensitive to caffeine
  

Other Benefits

While the colour is the big draw, Blue Butterfly Pea Tea also has other perks:

• Rich in antioxidants – Anthocyanins help combat oxidative stress in the body & reduce inflammation.
• Supports hydration – It’s a refreshing, caffeine-free alternative to regular tea, plus it's great Iced making it perfect to enjoy in the summertime.
• Versatile – Can be used in teas, cocktails, smoothies, and even as a natural food dye.

How to Brew It

1. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried butterfly pea flowers to hot water.
2. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes until the water turns deep blue.
3. Strain and enjoy as is, or add lemon juice for a colour change & zesty citrus hit.

For an iced version, brew your tea, let it cool, and then pour over ice. You can also mix it into cocktails or desserts for a fun, natural colour boost. It has a gentle, floral flavour that works well with other flavours. 

Blue Butterfly Pea Tea is more than just an eye-catching drink—it’s naturally caffeine-free, rich in antioxidants, and completely free of artificial colours. Whether you enjoy it hot, iced, or as a fun ingredient in food and drinks, it’s a simple way to add a little colour to your day.

Grab yours here :)