Clitoria Ternatea Flower Extract
Also known as: Clitoria ternatea L., Butterfly Pea Flower, Blue Pea Flower, Clitoria ternatea
Overview
Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as Butterfly Pea Flower, is a plant native to tropical regions recognized for its vibrant blue flowers. These flowers are rich in anthocyanins, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, and tannins, contributing to its potential health benefits and use as a natural dye. The extract contains polyacrylated anthocyanins, which exhibit stable and pH-dependent color changes, making it suitable for intelligent food packaging. Traditionally used in medicine, Clitoria ternatea is increasingly studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Research is emerging, with studies showing promising health effects, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits. It is available in various forms, including teas and extracts, and is sourced directly from the flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant.
Benefits
Clitoria ternatea flower extract has demonstrated several potential health benefits. Studies suggest it can reduce postprandial lipemia, decreasing serum triglyceride and free fatty acid levels after meals. Research on diabetic rats indicates significant antidiabetic effects, including reduced fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels. Additionally, the extract exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. These benefits are primarily attributed to the high concentration of anthocyanins and flavonoids in the flower. While these findings are promising, more extensive human clinical trials are necessary to fully validate these effects and determine their clinical significance across diverse populations.
How it works
Clitoria ternatea's mechanism of action is primarily attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and anthocyanins. These compounds may inhibit pancreatic enzymes such as α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase, which are crucial for carbohydrate digestion. By inhibiting these enzymes, the extract can reduce glucose absorption, contributing to its antidiabetic effects. Additionally, the bioactive compounds in Clitoria ternatea interact with the digestive and cardiovascular systems, influencing glucose metabolism and lipid profiles. The precise molecular targets and absorption pathways are still under investigation, but the plant's impact on enzyme activity is a key factor in its observed health benefits.
Side effects
While Clitoria ternatea is generally considered safe, comprehensive human safety data are limited. Common and uncommon side effects are not well-documented due to the lack of extensive human trials. Rare side effects have not been reported. Potential drug interactions may occur with diabetes medications due to its glucose-lowering effects, necessitating caution for individuals with diabetes or those taking blood sugar-affecting medications. Contraindications are not yet established, but pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use due to limited safety data. Further research is needed to fully understand its safety profile and potential adverse effects.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Clitoria ternatea for human health benefits has not been definitively established. Animal studies have used doses of 150-600 mg/kg in rats, but human dosing recommendations are not well-defined. The maximum safe dose is also not yet established. Typically, it is consumed as a tea or extract. Bioavailability may be influenced by the presence of other nutrients or compounds. Due to the limited data, it is crucial to start with a low dose and monitor for any adverse effects. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosage ranges and safety thresholds for human consumption.
FAQs
How should I prepare Clitoria ternatea extract for consumption?
Clitoria ternatea is commonly consumed as a tea by steeping the dried flowers in hot water. Extracts are also available and can be added to beverages or food. Follow product-specific instructions for dosage.
Are there any potential interactions with medications?
Due to its potential glucose-lowering effects, Clitoria ternatea may interact with diabetes medications. Consult with a healthcare provider if you are taking any medications that affect blood sugar levels.
What are the expected benefits of consuming Clitoria ternatea?
Potential benefits include improved blood sugar control and healthier lipid profiles. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans. It should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.
Is Clitoria ternatea safe to consume?
Clitoria ternatea is generally considered safe, but more research is needed to fully understand its safety profile. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10255602/ – This systematic review discusses the potential of Clitoria ternatea extract for intelligent packaging due to its pH-sensitive color change and explores its various health benefits. The review highlights the need for more rigorous human studies to validate these benefits and fully understand its applications in food packaging and health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37299340/ – This study focuses on the polymer characteristics of Clitoria ternatea extract, emphasizing its suitability for intelligent packaging applications. The extract's polyacrylated anthocyanins provide stable and pH-dependent color changes, making it a valuable component for monitoring food freshness and safety.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2079-7737/10/10/975 – This research explores the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Clitoria ternatea, suggesting its potential in various health applications. The study emphasizes the role of anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds in providing these beneficial effects, supporting its traditional use in medicine.
- https://tjnpr.org/index.php/home/article/view/2841 – This animal study investigates the antidiabetic effects of Clitoria ternatea extract in diabetic rats. The findings indicate that the extract significantly reduces fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, suggesting its potential as a complementary treatment for diabetes. However, human trials are needed to confirm these results.
- https://www.eurekabiomedical.com/index.php/EHI/article/view/109 – This human study examines the impact of Clitoria ternatea extract on postprandial lipemia. The results show that consumption of the extract decreases postprandial serum triglyceride and free fatty acid levels, indicating potential benefits for managing lipid profiles after meals. Further details on the study design and population are needed for a comprehensive assessment.
