Extraction methods of butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) flower and biological activities of its phytochemicals

Clitoria ternateaor commonly known as 'Butterfly pea' has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine in which various parts of the plants are used to treat health issues such as indigestion, constipation, arthritis, skin diseases, liver and intestinal problems. The flowers ofC. ternateaare used worldwide as ornamental flowers and traditionally used as a food colorant. This paper reviews the recent advances in the extraction and biological activities of phytochemicals fromC. ternateaflowers. The application of maceration or ultrasound assisted extraction greatly increased the yield (16-247% of increase) of phytochemicals fromC. ternateaflowers. Various phytochemicals such as kaempferol, quercetin and myricetin glycosides as well as anthocyanins have been isolated fromC. ternateaflowers.Clitoria ternateaflower extracts were found to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and antidiabetic activities which are beneficial to human health.Clitoria ternateaflower is a promising candidate for functional food applications owing to its wide range of pharmacotherapeutic properties as well as its safety and effectiveness.

Automated summary

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as Butterfly pea, is a traditional medicinal plant with a wide range of pharmacological properties used to treat various health issues. Recent advances in extraction methods have shown increased yield of phytochemicals from its flowers, which exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic activities beneficial for human health. The plant is considered a promising candidate for functional food applications due to its safety, effectiveness, and diverse pharmacotherapeutic properties.