Clitoria ternatea (Blue Tea): A Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology

Abstract

Introduction/Objective: Clitoria ternatea L. (Blue Tea), is a traditional Ayurvedic medicinal plant recognized for its cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It contains diverse secondary metabolites including flavonol glycosides, triterpenoids, anthocyanins, and steroids. This review aims to collectively present updated evidence on its phytochemical profile, pharmacological actions, and therapeutic potential, highlighting the link between traditional use and modern science.

Methods: A structured literature review was conducted using published articles from scientific databases, focusing on phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and reported therapeutic benefits. Experimental and preclinical studies were primarily considered to evaluate biological activities.

Results: Clitoria ternatea extracts demonstrated significant enhancement of cholinergic neurotransmission, improving learning and memory while reducing anxiety. Antioxidant activity contributed to reduced oxidative stress, potentially preventing chronic disease onset. Extracts also exhibited anti-diabetic, lipid-regulating, antimicrobial, larvicidal, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects. Consumption in the form of blue tea has shown growing acceptability in the Indian market due to health benefits and affordability.

Discussion: Findings support the medicinal relevance of Clitoria ternatea; however, variations in extraction methods and limited human clinical studies restrict confirmation of efficacy and safety. Standardization of preparation and dose optimization remain necessary for therapeutic application.

Conclusion: Clitoria ternatea represents a promising multipurpose medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological activities. Future research should emphasize clinical evaluations, toxicity profiling, and drug-interaction assessments to facilitate its development into validated natural therapeutic agents.