BUTTERFLY PEA: A BRILLIANT BLUE TEA AND EXPLORATION OFTHERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF APARAJITA (CLITORIA TERNATEALINN)

Clitoria ternatea Linn., commonly consumed as butterfly pea or blue tea, is a caffeine-free herbal infusion prepared from its fresh or dried flowers. Traditionally valued in Ayurveda, the plant is known for multiple therapeutic benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, cognitive-enhancing, and metabolic regulatory properties. Owing to its growing popularity, the present study aimed to evaluate the pharmacognostic features, phytochemical composition, and in vitro pharmacological potential of different parts of C. ternatea, including leaves, flowers, roots, and seeds. Comprehensive macroscopic and microscopic examinations were performed to ensure correct plant identification and purity. Sequential extraction using eleven solvents enabled isolation of diverse phytoconstituents. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, saponins, tannins, phenolic compounds, proteins, fats, and oils, with variations across plant parts and solvents. Microbial analysis confirmed the absence of harmful pathogens, ensuring safety of plant material. In vitro assays demonstrated significant pharmacological activities of the ethanolic extracts. The extract showed strong anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of protein denaturation, notable hypoglycemic potential through α-amylase inhibition, and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against selected bacterial and fungal strains. Additionally, the extract exhibited considerable antihypertensive activity by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). A practical assessment on human volunteers further suggested the potential of blue tea to support healthy blood pressure levels. Overall, the findings highlight Clitoria ternatea as a rich source of bioactive metabolites with multiple therapeutic applications, supporting its traditional use and potential for development in herbal and nutraceutical formulations.