Clitoria ternatea Linn (Asian Pigeonwings): A Comprehensive Review on its Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Potential

Abstract

This review highlights the diverse pharmacological properties of Clitoria ternatea Linn., belonging to the family Fabaceae. Commonly recognized as butterfly pea in (English) and aparajita in (Hindi) also known as blue pea or Asian pigeonwings this perennial twining herbaceous plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental species. Traditionally, Clitoria ternatea has been extensively employed in the Ayurvedic system of medicine as medhya rasayana (a brain tonic) to enhance cognitive function and treat neurological disorders. Within Ayurveda, Clitoria ternatea forms an integral component of the Madhya rasayana, a therapeutic formulation prescribed for the management of various neurodegenerative conditions. By supporting the pharmacological relevance of Indian medicinal plants, this review underscores the significance of Clitoria ternatea as a potent neuropharmacological agent. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of numerous bioactive constituents, including apigenin, clitorin, triterpenoids, anthocyanins, steroids, and flavanol glycosides. The root extract of Clitoria ternatea has been subjected to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, followed by molecular docking studies against the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), wherein four potential compounds, along with four reference standards, exhibited promising interactions. Comprehensive pharmacological studies have demonstrated a broad spectrum of biological activities associated with Clitoria ternatea, including nootropic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, antistress, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, analgesic, cytotoxic, antiplatelet, and hepatoprotective effects. The wide range of reported pharmacodynamic actions suggests that Clitoria ternatea represents a valuable source for the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents targeting multiple pathological conditions. This review comprehensively summarizes the phytochemical profile, pharmacological activities with a particular focus on neuroprotective potential alongside the safety aspects, current applications in the food and cosmetic industries, and prospective directions for future drug development based on Clitoria ternatea.

Keywords

Clitoria ternatea ; Aparajita; Butterfly pea; Medhya drug; Nootropic activity; Antioxidant; Anti-inflammatory; molecular docking

Introduction

Pharmacology of Clitoria ternatea  (CT)

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Nootropic Activity:

Clitoria ternatea  (CT), an important plant in Ayurvedic medicine, has been traditionally employed for the management of neurological and cognitive disorders for centuries. Taranalli and Cheeramkuzhy [31] evaluated the effects of CT extracts on memory performance and central cholinergic mechanisms in rats using the passive avoidance test. Their findings revealed that oral administration of the aerial part extract (300 mg/kg) resulted in 66.66% memory retention in electroshock-induced amnesic rats. This dose significantly elevated acetylcholine (ACh) levels in the whole brain, while acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was enhanced in the cortex and midbrain but remained unchanged in the medulla oblongata and cerebellum. At a higher dose (500 mg/kg), the aerial extract produced only 50% memory retention without marked alterations in cholinergic parameters compared with control animals. In contrast, the root extract of CT demonstrated comparable memory retention at both 300 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses in electroshocked rats and produced a significant increase in ACh concentration. Although a slight, non-significant reduction in AChE activity was observed in the midbrain and medulla oblongata at lower doses, a higher dose (500 mg/kg) led to a significant rise in AChE activity in the cerebral cortex and a reduction in the medulla oblongata, with minimal changes in the cerebellum. These results suggest that the root extract exhibits superior efficacy in ameliorating memory deficits compared to the aerial parts. Additionally, the cathartic effect of the root extract was recorded in mice.

In a related investigation, Rai et al. [32] explored the learning and memory-enhancing potential of aqueous CT root extract during the developmental growth phase in rats. Neonatal rat pups (7 days old) were orally administered 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg doses for 30 days, followed by behavioural assessments using open-field, two-compartment passive avoidance, and T-maze tests. The treatment significantly improved retention in the passive avoidance task, increased the percentage of correct responses and total alternations, and reduced response bias in the T-maze, indicating long-term behavioural enhancement. The aqueous root extract also increased hippocampal ACh levels in both neonatal (7 days) and young (60 days) rats at 100 mg/kg for 30 days [33], suggesting that increased cholinergic transmission may contribute to its nootropic activity.

Further, the nootropic potential of the methanolic extract of CT aerial parts (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was assessed using the elevated plus maze and object recognition tests—models for long-term and short-term memory, respectively. The extract significantly decreased transfer latency and increased inflexion ratio in the elevated plus maze, while enhancing the discrimination index in the object recognition test, confirming its cognition-promoting properties. [34] also demonstrated that aqueous CT root extract (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o., for 30 days) induced morphological changes in the amygdala, including increased dendritic intersections, branching points, and dendritic processes, reflecting enhanced neuronal connectivity. These effects may be mediated by bioactive compounds in CT that mimic neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or nerve growth factor (NGF), promoting neuronal survival and plasticity within dopaminergic, cholinergic, and serotonergic systems of the CNS.

Additional studies have corroborated the memory-enhancing potential of CT. The aqueous-methanolic extract demonstrated significant improvement in cognitive performance [35], while Jain et al. [36] confirmed its nootropic action using elevated plus maze and object recognition paradigms. Moreover, aqueous root extract promoted the proliferation and differentiation of neutrospheres derived from the anterior subventricular zone, enhancing neurogenesis and neuronal yield, which could underlie its role in memory improvement [37]. The ethanolic root extract (100 mg/kg, p.o.) also provided neuroprotection to neurons in the frontal cortex and dentate gyrus of young diabetic rats [38].

Furthermore, aqueous and hydroalcoholic CT extracts exhibited inhibitory effects on key enzymes implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) [39]. The hydroalcoholic extract notably mitigated streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Alzheimer-like symptoms in rats by inhibiting cholinesterase activity, exerting antioxidant effects, and downregulating Rho kinase expression in the brain [39]. Alcoholic root extracts of CT in combination with Salacia reticulata also demonstrated nootropic activity in early-onset diabetic rats [40]. Additionally, a Medhya Rasayana formulation containing CT exhibited neuroprotective and memory-enhancing effects in kainic acid-induced brain injury in rats [41]. Collectively, these findings indicate that Clitoria ternatea  possesses significant neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing potential, supporting its therapeutic use in the management of Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.

Anticonvulsant activity:

Seizures are generally attributed to an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission within the central nervous system. Agents that enhance γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity in the brain are known to exhibit anticonvulsant effects in experimental models of epilepsy. The methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Clitoria ternatea  (CT) demonstrated significant anticonvulsant activity at an oral dose of 100 mg/kg in both pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)- and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizure models in mice [36]. The extract effectively delayed the onset of convulsions in the PTZ model and reduced the duration of tonic hind limb extension in the MES model, indicating a protective effect against seizure activity. These findings suggest the potential role of CT as a natural source for antiepileptic agents.

However, contrary results were observed in another experimental study where ethanolic extracts of the aerial parts of CT, administered orally at doses of 230 mg/kg and 460 mg/kg, failed to exhibit significant protection against PTZ- or MES-induced seizures in rats [43]. This discrepancy may be attributed to differences in extract type, dose, or species sensitivity, warranting further investigation to elucidate the precise anticonvulsant mechanism of Clitoria ternatea .

The Antidepressant activity:

The methanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea  (CT) has demonstrated notable antidepressant activity in experimental animal models. In the tail suspension test conducted in mice, oral administration of CT extract at doses of 100 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the duration of immobility, indicating antidepressant-like effects [36]. The reduction in immobility time was more pronounced at the higher dose (400 mg/kg) and was found to be comparable or superior to the standard antidepressant fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Similarly, another investigation reported the antidepressant potential of the ethanolic extract of CT root at oral doses of 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg [44].

Further phytochemical and molecular studies have identified (Z)-9,17-octadecadienal and n-hexadecenoic acid, isolated from the roots of CT, as promising bioactive constituents with selective monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) inhibitory properties [45]. These compounds may serve as lead molecules for the development of novel herbal antidepressants and anxiolytic agents, providing a natural therapeutic alternative for the management of psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Anti-anxiety effect:

Clitoria ternatea  (CT) has been reported to exhibit mild anxiolytic activity in experimental behavioral models. In studies employing the elevated plus maze and light/dark exploration tests, the methanolic extract of CT demonstrated a dose-dependent anti-anxiety effect at oral doses ranging from 100 to 400 mg/kg when administered 60 minutes prior to testing [36]. In the elevated plus maze, CT treatment produced a significant, dose-dependent increase in the time spent by mice in the open arms, suggesting reduced anxiety-like behavior. Similarly, in the light/dark exploration paradigm, higher doses of CT (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) led to a marked increase in the duration spent in the illuminated compartment, accompanied by a corresponding decrease in time spent in the dark box. These findings collectively indicate that CT possesses dose-dependent anxiolytic potential, though the overall effect observed was relatively mild compared to standard anxiolytic agents.

Analgesic activity:

The analgesic activities of the methanolic extract of clitoria ternatea  linn leaves were examine at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg of body weight on mice. The analgesic activities were investigated using acetic acid induced writhing test. The plant extracts central nervous system (CNS) depressant activity was evaluated by using hole cross and open field tests. The extract decreased dose-dependent motor activity and exploratory behaviour of mice in hole cross and open field tests. The number of fields crossed and holes crossed decreased with time (50).

Hot plate and tail- flick tests: clitoria ternatea  root extract demonstrated antinociceptive activity centrally at supraspinal and spinal levels. Clitoria ternatea  leaf extract Demonstrated antinociceptive activity centrally at the supraspinal level only. (50)

Co- administration with naloxone (a non- selective opioid antagonist) reduce the effect, indicating that opioid receptors are involved in the antinociceptive action of both extracts (51).

Local anaesthetic effect:

The anaesthetic potential of the ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Clitoria ternatea  was assessed using corneal anaesthesia in rabbits and plexus anaesthesia in frogs. Experimental observations revealed that a 10% solution of the plant extract effectively abolished the root withdrawal reflex in frogs, indicating a local anaesthetic effect. However, the extract did not produce any surface anaesthetic action on the cornea of rabbits [52].

Effect on lithium-induced head twitching:

In the study, methanolic extract of CT (100 mg/kg, oral) given 60 minutes before lithium sulphate (3 mEq/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the number of lithium-induced head twitches counted over 60 minutes in rats (52). Lithium-induced head twitches are considered to be an indicator of serotonergic (5-HT) activity / increased serotonin levels in the brain. Therefore, the reduction suggests that CT might modulate serotonergic transmission (i.e.antagonize or suppress overactivity of serotonin) in this paradigm (52).

In the same work, the control (vehicle) group showed an average of ~ 36.5 ± 6.0 head twitches in 1 hour, while CT (100 mg/kg) reduced this to ~ 19.2 ± 2.7 (in one report) or ~ 18.5 ± 2.37 (in another presentation) with statistical significance (~ P = 0.037) versus control (52).

Interpretation (Mechanistic Considerations)

The head?twitch response induced by lithium is used as a model to evaluate serotonergic hyperactivity; agents that reduce head twitches are often considered to have anti-serotonergic or serotonergic modulatory properties in that context. Thus, CT’s ability to reduce lithium-induced head twitches suggests that its CNS effects might include modulation or inhibition of serotonergic signalling under overactivated conditions. However, the exact active phytoconstituent(s) and precise receptor targets (e.g 5-HT subtypes) are not clearly established in the literature.

Effect on clonidine-induced hypothermia:

The influence of the methanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea  (CT) on clonidine-induced hypothermia was evaluated in mice. Oral administration of CT at a dose of 100 mg/kg was tested against clonidine (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced reduction in rectal temperature. In vehicle-treated mice, clonidine produced a marked hypothermic response, with the maximum decrease in body temperature observed approximately 60 minutes post-administration. Treatment with CT alone did not significantly affect the baseline rectal temperature. Moreover, pretreatment with CT failed to prevent or reverse clonidine-induced hypothermia to a statistically significant degree. Similarly, piracetam, which served as a reference compound, also did not significantly modify the hypothermic response to clonidine. These findings indicate that under the experimental conditions employed, CT did not exert any appreciable antagonistic effect on clonidine-induced hypothermia [53].

Effect on sodium nitrite- induced respiratory arrest: 

The methanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea  has been investigated for its effects on the central nervous system using various experimental models. In the sodium nitrite–induced respiratory arrest test, oral pretreatment with C. ternatea (100 mg/kg) failed to provide significant protection against respiratory arrest and did not prolong the latency period to death. These findings suggest that the extract lacks a protective effect against chemical hypoxia under the tested conditions [52].

Potentiation of barbiturate-induced sleeping time:

In the barbiturate-induced sleeping time assay, Clitoria ternatea  was found to potentiate the duration of sleep in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting a central nervous system depressant or sedative effect. This activity may be mediated through facilitation of GABAergic neurotransmission or by a general CNS depressant mechanism. In certain studies, the sedative effect of the extract was comparable to that observed with chlorpromazine [52].

Memory booster:

In an experimental study, oral administration of Clitoria ternatea  root extract at varying doses significantly enhanced memory in rats. Both alcoholic extracts of the aerial parts and roots were found to mitigate electroshock-induced amnesia [14]. The study further assessed acetylcholine (ACh) levels in the whole brain and acetylcholinesterase activity across different brain regions, including the cerebral cortex, midbrain, medulla oblongata, and cerebellum. The observed increase in ACh content in the hippocampus was proposed as a potential neurochemical mechanism underlying the memory-enhancing effects of the extract. Notably, the most pronounced memory-improving and anxiolytic effects of C. ternatea were observed at doses of 200 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, respectively, with statistical significance (p < 0.001) [74].

Gastrointestinal system:

Anthelmintic activities:

Numerous studies have reported the anthelmintic activity of Clitoria ternatea . It has been shown that the crude alcoholic extract, along with its ethyl acetate and methanol fractions, significantly induced paralysis and death of worms, particularly at higher concentrations (50 mg/ml), compared to the standard reference drug piperazine citrate [54]. The inhibitory effects of C. ternatea leaves on free-living nematodes were also assessed using aqueous and methanolic extracts. Additionally, various plant parts, including flowers, leaves, stems, and roots, were evaluated for anthelmintic activity against adult Indian earthworms (Pheretima posthuma). Among these, the methanol extract of the root exhibited the highest potency, requiring the shortest time to induce paralysis and death, followed in order of decreasing activity by flowers, leaves, and stems. The pronounced anthelmintic effect of the root methanol extract is likely attributable to the presence of bioactive compounds in this fraction [55].

Anti-ulcer activities:

The anti-stress potential of Clitoria ternatea  was assessed using a cold-restraint stress–induced ulcer model in rats, in which ulcers were produced by restraining animals on a wooden plank at 4°C for 2 hours. The methanolic extract of C. ternatea exhibited a dose-dependent anti-stress effect at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg (p.o.) when administered 60 minutes prior to the test [36]. Furthermore, ethanolic and chloroform extracts of the leaves, as well as alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the whole plant, also demonstrated anti-ulcer activity in rats, which may be attributed to their antioxidant and anti-secretory properties [56,57].

Respiratory System:

Clitoria ternatea  is traditionally employed in the management of respiratory ailments such as common cold, cough, and asthma, owing to its expectorant properties and ability to soothe irritation of the respiratory tract. The whole plant is also utilized for smoking, while decoctions are commonly used for gargling to alleviate throat-related conditions. Administration of root juice with milk helps to relieve viscous phlegm associated with cough and asthma, and oral intake of the extract has been reported to be effective in the treatment of whooping cough [58].

Anti-asthmatic activity:

The anti-asthmatic potential of ethanolic extracts of Clitoria ternatea  roots has been investigated using multiple experimental models, including milk-induced leucocytosis and eosinophilia in mice, egg albumin–induced mast cell degranulation in rats, and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats [59]. Treatment with the ethanolic root extract resulted in a significant reduction in milk-induced leucocytosis and eosinophilia, protection against egg albumin–induced mast cell degranulation, and inhibition of blue dye leakage in the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model. Additionally, the ethanolic extract demonstrated bronchodilator activity, further supporting its therapeutic potential in the management of asthma [60]

Cardiovascular and Metabolic System:

Anti-hyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect:

The anti-hyperglycaemic and anti-hyperlipidaemic effects of aqueous extracts of Clitoria ternatea  flowers and leaves have been evaluated in alloxan-induced diabetic rats at a dose of 400 mg/kg, p.o., administered daily for 84 days. In diabetic control rats, significant elevations in blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, and creatinine, along with reductions in serum insulin, HDL-cholesterol, liver glycogen, and skeletal muscle glycogen, were observed compared to normal controls. Treatment with the aqueous extracts of leaves and flowers for 84 days markedly reduced blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, and creatinine, while restoring serum insulin, HDL-cholesterol, liver glycogen, and skeletal muscle glycogen to near-normal levels. Additionally, the extracts modulated key hepatic enzymes, increasing glucokinase activity and reducing glucose-6-phosphatase activity, which were altered in diabetic animals, thereby contributing to improved glucose homeostasis [61]. These findings suggest that C. ternatea leaf and flower extracts exhibit potent hypoglycaemic activity and effectively mitigate diabetes-associated complications, including hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and renal dysfunction. Furthermore, hydroalcoholic extracts of C. ternatea roots and seeds demonstrated anti-hyperlipidaemic activity, potentially through enhanced biliary excretion and reduced dietary cholesterol absorption [62]. Methanolic extracts of CT leaves, administered either as a single dose or for 15 days, showed significant hypoglycaemic effects in STZ-induced diabetic rats [63], while ethanolic seed extracts also exhibited notable anti-diabetic activity under similar experimental conditions [64].

Platelet aggregation inhibitory activity:

Clitoria ternatea  has been investigated for its effect on blood platelet aggregation. In a study using a rabbit model, the plant demonstrated significant inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by collagen and adenosine diphosphate (ADP). This activity is likely attributed to ternatin D1, a major anthocyanin isolated from the petals. The study highlighted the in vitro platelet aggregation inhibitory potential of ternatin D1 in rabbit platelets [65].

Hepatic system:

Hepatoprotective activity:

The methanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea  leaves, administered orally at 200 mg/kg in mice, demonstrated protective effects against paracetamol-induced liver toxicity by reducing levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and bilirubin, along with improvements observed in histopathological analyses [66]. In another study, the hepatoprotective potential of white- and blue-flowered CT leaf extracts was evaluated in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity in rats. The white-flowered CT leaf extract exhibited greater hepatoprotective activity than the blue-flowered variant, which may be attributed to its stronger antioxidant properties [67].

Immune System:

Immunoregulatory activity:

Studies evaluating the oral administration of an aqueous extract of Clitoria ternatea  in alloxan-induced diabetic rats over 60 days demonstrated a significant reduction in serum glucose and cholesterol levels. In treated diabetic rats, total WBCs, RBCs, T-lymphocytes, and B-lymphocytes were notably upregulated, whereas monocytes and eosinophils showed opposing trends. Cationic cyclotides (peptides) isolated from the plant were found to inhibit the secretion of various cytokines and chemokines in human monocytes, both under resting conditions and following lipopolysaccharide stimulation. These findings suggest that C. ternatea could serve as a potential source for novel immunoregulatory therapies [68]. The plant’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its immunomodulatory effects.

General/ Multi-systemic Effect:

Antipyretic effect:

A study was conducted to assess the antipyretic activity of the methanolic root extract of the blue-flowered variety of Clitoria ternatea  in albino rats. The evaluation involved two groups: rats with normal body temperature and rats with yeast-induced pyrexia. Yeast injection (10 ml/kg, subcutaneously) produced a rise in rectal temperature after 19 hours. Administration of the extract at doses of 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg body weight significantly lowered the normal body temperature and dose-dependently reduced the elevated temperature in pyretic rats. This antipyretic effect persisted for up to 5 hours after administration. The efficacy of the methanolic extract was comparable to that of paracetamol (150 mg/kg), a standard antipyretic drug [69].

Antioxidant activity:

Antioxidant studies revealed that the aqueous extracts of Clitoria ternatea  exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than ethanolic extracts, with IC?? values of 2 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml, respectively, as determined by the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) scavenging assay. The total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts was measured as 2.0 mg/g extract in gallic acid equivalents. These findings support the use of C. ternatea flower extracts as natural antioxidants in the cosmetic industry.

Different solvent extracts of the leaves were also tested for in vitro free radical scavenging using the DPPH assay. All extracts demonstrated concentration-dependent antioxidant activity, with the methanolic extract showing the highest potency, followed by chloroform and petroleum ether extracts [84].

In another study, the petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanolic extracts of roots from white- and blue-flowered varieties were evaluated using DPPH, hydroxyl radical scavenging, and reducing power assays. All three root extracts significantly inhibited DPPH radicals at concentrations between 50–600 µg/ml (Microunits). Among them, extracts from the white-flowered variety showed the strongest inhibition compared to the blue-flowered variety [70].

Anti-cancer potential:

The cytotoxic potential of Clitoria ternatea  has been demonstrated using methanolic extracts of leaves and flowers, as well as aqueous extracts of flowers, across various cancer cell lines [71]. Additionally, cyclotides—bioactive peptides from the plant—exhibited anticancer and chemosensitizing effects in paclitaxel (Taxol)-resistant lung cancer cells [72].

Anti-microbial activity:

The antimicrobial potential of Clitoria ternatea  was investigated against several Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, including Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella enteritidis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, enteropathogenic E. coli, uropathogenic E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These strains were isolated from patients with urinary tract infections and acute gastroenteritis [73]. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the disc diffusion method, and the flower extracts of C. ternatea demonstrated inhibitory effects against these pathogens. Among the extracts tested, methanolic extracts showed the highest activity compared to chloroform and aqueous extracts. Furthermore, the plant protein “Finotin” was identified as a potent agent capable of inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens in various plants [74].

Insecticidal studies

Proteins and peptides isolated from Clitoria ternatea  have been reported to contribute to its insecticidal properties [75]. In one study, plant extracts were able to penetrate and permeabilize insect cell membrane lipids, with the shoot extracts showing the highest potency, exhibiting an LC?? of 0.31 µg/ml [76].

Larvicidal activity:

The methanolic seed extracts of Clitoria ternatea  were effective against larvae of three model species, with LC?? values of 65.2, 154.5, and 54.4 ppm for A. stephensi, A. aegypti, and C. quiquefascitus, respectively. In comparison, the chloroform leaf extract showed LC?? values of 302.2, 517.2, and 422.2 ppm for the same species. Additionally, the methanol and chloroform flower extracts exhibited satisfactory larvicidal activity against A. stephensi, with LC?? values of 254.4 and 748.7 ppm, respectively. These findings indicate that C. ternatea possesses promising larvicidal potential [77].

Other major areas of work

Physicochemical applications 

The physicochemical and proximate composition of Clitoria ternatea  was evaluated by analyzing total ash, acid-insoluble ash, alcohol-insoluble ash, water-soluble extractives, soluble minerals, crude protein, total lipids, crude fibre, and soluble carbohydrates in various plant parts. Among the results, the leaves contained the highest total ash, while seeds had the lowest. Acid-insoluble ash was highest in leaves, followed by roots and flowers, and absent in stems and seeds. Soluble mineral content was highest in stems, followed by flowers and leaves, and lowest in seeds. Crude protein was highest in seeds and lowest in roots, whereas total lipid content was highest in stems, followed by seeds and leaves, with roots showing the least. Crude fibre was abundant in roots, followed by stems and seeds, while leaves had the lowest. Soluble carbohydrates were most concentrated in leaves, followed by roots, flowers, seeds, and stems [78].

Additionally, heavy metal analysis revealed that nickel and lead in the flowers were within the permissible limits (<0.2 mg/kg) as per the National Standard of China on Maximum Levels of Contaminants in Foods (2005). Proximate analysis of the flowers showed high moisture content (92.40%), with fat, carbohydrate, and crude fibre constituting 2.50%, 2.23%, and 2.10%, respectively, while ash and protein were present in lower amounts.

Genetic Improvement studies 

Variability arises from differences in the genetic constitution of individuals within a population or from variations in their adaptable environments. Such variability is a crucial factor in determining a plant species’ resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and its potential for wider adaptability. In a study on the population of the cross C. ternatea × C. purpurea, high phenotypic (PCV) and genotypic (GCV) coefficients of variability were observed for traits such as leaf length, plant height, seed weight, crude protein, crude fibre, leaf breadth, number of leaves per plant, and total number of pods per plant. The study highlighted the significance of these traits for selection and their importance in effective breeding programs aimed at forage improvement [79].

In vitro propagation studies

Studies on shoot regeneration through callus formation from C. ternatea leaf explants have been conducted [80]. One study reported that abundant multiple shoot buds were induced from young shoot tips when cultured on MS medium supplemented with auxins (NAA – Naphthalene Acetic Acid or IAA – Indole Acetic Acid) in combination with 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) at concentrations of 0.5–1 mg/L.

Other Applications

The different parts of the plant like roots, seeds, leaves and flowers are reported to be used from ancient times.

Food source

From time immemorial, C. ternatea has been used as a forage legume. The plant can produce up to approximately 30 tons of dry matter per acre annually. Its seeds are rich in protein, making the plant valuable for enhancing nitrogen levels in depleted cultivated paddocks. The crude fiber and crude protein content of the leaves have been estimated and fall within a consumable range suitable for livestock [79].

Ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen

The roots of C. ternatea produce large, round nodules that harbour nitrogen-fixing bacteria capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by the plant, making it well-suited for crop rotation systems [81]. Studies have identified specific legumes that, when grown alongside C. ternatea, enhance root nodule formation and improve soil fertility. In a recent study from Thailand, researchers isolated 11 rhizobial strains from the plant, further confirming its role in enhancing soil nutrient content [82].

Ornamental value 

C. ternatea is typically cultivated in warm climates, primarily as an ornamental plant. Its attractive flowers contribute significant aesthetic value. Although the genus Clitoria is widespread and encompasses multiple species, C. ternatea is unique in the genus for its ornamental appeal. Flower colors range from creamy white and light blue to dark blue, violet, pink, and mauve. The single-petal form represents the typical papilionaceous flower, whereas the double-petal form is non-papilionaceous with free stamens. Mauve, deep violet, and dark blue flowers are particularly favored for ornamental use [83].

CONCLUSION:

Clitoria ternatea  linn, commonly known as butterfly pea or Aparajita, represent one of the most promising herbal plant in traditional and modern pharmacology. Extensive studies have validated its diverse pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, nootropic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effect. The presence of multiple bioactive compounds-such as flavonoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, and anthocyanins support its broad therapeutic application. Moreover, its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties make it a valuable candidate for developing novel nature drug targeting neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s. future research focusing on molecular mechanisms, bioavailability, and clinical validation will further establish clitoria ternatea  as a significant herb in evidence-based medicine.

FUTURE PROSPECTIVE:

Future research on clitoria ternatea  should focus on isolating active compounds, understanding their molecular mechanisms, and validation their effects through clinical trials. Developing standardized formulations and advanced drug delivery system could enhance its therapeutic use. Additionally, sustainable cultivation and conservation of this medicinal plant will ensure its long-term availability for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical application.

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