The author of “Eat To Beat Disease”, Dr. William Li talks about the health advantages of consuming herbal tea rich in anthocyanin, an antioxidant that may hold several health benefits.

One such herbal tea originates from the butterfly pea flower, a plant indigenous to South East Asia. Traditionally, the dried blooms of this plant, recognized for their “blue-purple bioactive” traits, have been consumed in tea form due to their multitude of health and therapeutic properties.

Dr. Li points out that Anthocyanins, present in the butterfly pea flower, exhibit properties that combat cancer. They have the ability to weaken and eradicate cancer cells, including cancer stem cells.

These antioxidants also have antiangiogenic features and have proven effective against the “effects of aging and oxidative stress.”

“While more research on anthocyanins is still needed,” adds Dr. Li, “they seem to play a role in free radical damage.”

He suggests making the switch to the caffeine-free butterfly pea flower tea as an afternoon beverage, which has a flavor akin to green tea.

Dr. Li noted an intriguing fact: when the blue pigment of the tea mixes with an acid such as lemon juice, it changes to a vibrant fuchsia color.

Reducing cancer risk

The CDC suggests lifestyle modifications to lower the chances of developing cancer.

These include maintaining a healthy weight, abstaining from tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and ensuring skin protection from sun exposure.

Cancer Research UK, while acknowledging that “not all cancers can be prevented,” suggests that healthier choices could possibly decrease your risk.

Studies suggest that the butterfly pea flower could potentially reduce the risk of diabetes.

A study published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies investigated the impact of this herbal tea on blood glucose and insulin levels.

Though the study was limited to 15 participants, those who consumed the tea showed reduced blood sugar and insulin levels.

Further research has revealed that the antioxidant characteristics of butterfly pea flowers might aid in guarding against cell damage and complications related to diabetes.

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