Asian Pigeonwings

Clitoria ternatea

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea or azura, is a traditional plant used in various cultural practices across Southeast Asia and India. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented for specific medicinal purposes; however, it has been employed in some local customs for general health and well-being. Scientific evidence suggests that Clitoria ternatea may have anti-inflammatory properties, as studies indicate that its flavonoid components can modulate inflammatory pathways associated with the TNF-α/IL-23/IL-17 axis. Additionally, a study found that the flower extract of this plant reduced serum protein carbonyls and increased urinary 5-HIAA levels in type-2 diabetic patients, suggesting potential benefits for managing oxidative stress and inflammation linked to diabetes. Another study showed that combining Clitoria ternatea with Moringa oleifera extracts could reduce inflammatory markers and intimal thickness in rats with diet-induced atherosclerosis, indicating possible cardiovascular health benefits. Safety-wise, no major issues have been reported, and there are currently no recorded drug interactions associated with the use of Clitoria ternatea. However, as with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating Clitoria ternatea into one's regimen, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • This study suggests that Clitoria ternatea extract, particularly its flavonoid components, may modulate key inflammatory pathways associated with the TNF-α/IL-23/IL-17 axis in vitro. D PMID
  • The study found that Clitoria ternatea flower extract significantly reduced serum protein carbonyls and increased urinary 5-HIAA levels in type-2 diabetic patients experiencing moderate distress. D PMID
  • The study found that a combination of Clitoria ternatea and Moringa oleifera extracts significantly reduced some inflammatory markers and intimal thickness in rats with diet-induced atherosclerosis. D PMID
  • Copper-doped zirconia nanoparticles derived from Clitoria ternatea showed biocompatibility and exhibited antioxidant and cervical cancer cell-killing activity. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Asian Pigeonwings?

Asian Pigeonwings (Clitoria ternatea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Asian Pigeonwings?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Asian Pigeonwings; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This study suggests that Clitoria ternatea extract, particularly its flavonoid components, may modulate key inflammatory pathways associated with the TNF-α/IL-23/IL-17 axis in vitro.

How strong is the evidence for Asian Pigeonwings?

The strongest finding for Asian Pigeonwings carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Asian Pigeonwings safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Asian Pigeonwings in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Asian Pigeonwings interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Asian Pigeonwings in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Asian Pigeonwings?

Asian Pigeonwings is also known as: Клитория тройчатая, Clitorie de Ternate.

Is Asian Pigeonwings a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 A clinical study on Clitoria ternatea tea therapy to manage diabetic distress in people with type 2 diabetes. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Clitoria ternatea and Moringa oleifera extracts reduce endothelial activation and intimal thickening in diet-induced atherosclerosis. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Photophysical characterization, biocompatibility and anticancer studies of green fabricated copper doped zirconium dioxide nanoparticles derived from Clitoria ternatea. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Exploring the functional food potential of Clitoria ternatea in modulating TNF-α/IL-23/IL-17 axis-related inflammatory pathways relevant to psoriasis. literature abstract metadata