Vol. 11, Special Issue 6 (2022)

Author(s):
Thilini Weerasinghe, Dayana Perera, Nethmi De Silva, Dinithi Poogoda and Hashani Swarnathilaka

Abstract:
Dyes and Food Colorings play an important role in the Food Industry. A trend was seen at that time for using natural dyes instead of artificial dyes. A natural dye can be extracted from Clitoria ternatea (CT/Blue pea) flower because of its vivid blue color. The reason for this deep blue color is because of the Anthocyanin compounds contained in the flower. Clitoria ternatea extraction was obtained through different methods and they vary with their manufacturing process. This plant was widely used in traditional medicine because it is rich in bioactive compounds. In treating diabetics, blood pressure, retinal damage, edema, and indigestion both the aerial and underground parts of this plant are being used. Researchers proved this plant’s medicinal activities such as nootropic activity, antioxidant activity, analgesic activity, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity. Currently, this plant’s uses are widely spread in the nanotechnology field as well.