What Is Blue Matcha?
Blue matcha is a recent trend that has become popular on social media, especially TikTok. It's made by mixing matcha green tea powder with butterfly pea flower powder, resulting in a bright blue-colored drink.
Butterfly Pea Flower Powder
Butterfly pea flower, also known as Clitoria ternatea, is a plant native to Asia. The vivid blue color comes from anthocyanin pigments in the flower petals. When steeped in hot water, butterfly pea flower powder produces a stunning blue tea.
These anthocyanins act as antioxidants in the body. Butterfly pea tea has been consumed for centuries in Southeast Asia for its rich antioxidant content and soothing properties.
Matcha Green Tea
Matcha comes from Camellia sinensis, the same plant that all non-herbal teas come from. It differs in that the green tea plants are covered for several weeks before harvest. This increases chlorophyll production, boosting the amino acid L-Theanine.
Once the leaves are picked, the fibrous veins and stems are stripped out and the leaves are stone-ground into a fine, bright green powder. So you are drinking the entire tea leaf with matcha, not just steeping it.
Matcha has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. Modern science has shown us that matcha contains high levels of antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. These compounds provide energy without the unwanted effects of caffeine crash.
Is Blue Matcha Good for You?
Both matcha on its own and butterfly pea flower tea have some health benefits through their antioxidant content. But there’s no evidence showing superior effects of combining the two into blue matcha.
Benefits of Blue Matcha Ingredients
Drinking matcha has been associated with these benefits:
- Boosted metabolism and fat burning
- Increased energy and endurance
- Improved focus and concentration
- Anti-aging through antioxidants
- Lowered blood pressure and cholesterol
- Enhanced mood
Meanwhile, potential butterfly pea flower benefits may include:
- Supporting healthy hormone balance
- Protecting the liver
- Slowing cognitive decline
- Soothing anxiety
- Aiding sleep
Antioxidants in Blue Matcha
Both matcha and butterfly pea flower contain antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and anthocyanins. These help neutralize free radicals to prevent oxidative damage and inflammation.
However, traditional green matcha typically contains higher antioxidant levels than butterfly pea powder. So blue matcha may not confer as many antioxidant benefits.
Caffeine Content
Matcha green tea contains around 30mg caffeine per half-teaspoon serving. Butterfly pea flower powder is caffeine-free.
This means adding butterfly pea flower can slightly lower the caffeine content of matcha. But blue matcha still contains moderate caffeine levels. Drink in moderation.
How to Make Blue Matcha Latte
Making blue matcha at home is simple. You just need matcha powder, butterfly pea flower powder, hot water, and milk of choice.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 tsp butterfly pea flower powder
- 1 cup hot water (not boiling)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Sweetener like honey if desired
Instructions
Follow these easy steps:
- Sift the matcha powder to eliminate clumps.
- Add matcha and butterfly pea flower powder to cup or glass.
- Pour in hot water and whisk vigorously until powders dissolve.
- Froth milk of choice until foamy.
- Pour foamed milk into tea and mix well.
- Sweeten if desired and enjoy your vibrant blue matcha!
Ideas to Customize
Change up this basic blue matcha recipe by:
- Adding vanilla, almond extract or cinnamon
- Blending with ice into a smoothie
- Topping with whipped cream
- Garnishing with berries
- Sprinkling with matcha powder
- Using alternate milks like oat or hemp
Possible Downsides of Blue Matcha
Despite the antioxidant benefits of its ingredients, there are some potential blue matcha side effects to know. These are not unique to blue matcha, but also apply to regular matcha.
Caffeine Sensitivity
The caffeine in matcha may cause jitteriness, headaches or insomnia in sensitive people. Start slow with matcha if you’re prone to caffeine side effects.
Upset Stomach
Drinking matcha on an empty stomach may irritate it for some. Have it with food or milk to minimize GI distress.
Lead Contamination
Some matcha powder has shown concerning lead levels. Look for an organic stone-ground Japanese matcha brand to limit this risk.
Moderation is Key
Blue matcha contains antioxidant plant compounds that appear safe in normal food amounts. But functional superfood doses may interact with medications or have unwanted effects.
Talk to your doctor before drinking matcha in large quantities. As with any supplement, don’t overdo it!
The Takeaway
Blue matcha latte is an eye-catching Instagrammable drink made by blending butterfly pea flower with traditional green matcha powder. Both ingredients show antioxidant benefits.
But keep in mind that concentration of active compounds may be lower in blue matcha. Still, this vibrant tea remains a slightly healthier alternative to a coffeehouse latte as long as you don't overdo the sweetener.
So while more research around combination effects is needed, blue matcha can be an enjoyable way to consume two antioxidant-containing botanicals. Give this colorful wellness trend a try next time you need an energy boost!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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