The beautiful blue Aparajita flower, also known as butterfly pea, is more than just an ornamental plant. Traditionally used in beverages and home remedies, these flowers are known for containing antioxidants and are increasingly being used in skincare and hair-care products.

If you have an Aparajita plant growing in your garden, you can put its flowers to another use by preparing a simple homemade face pack and serum. These preparations can become an easy addition to your skincare routine.

According to Healthline, butterfly pea flowers contain antioxidants that may support skin and hair health, which is why their extracts are used in products such as serums, hair mists and shampoos.

What Does Research Say About Aparajita?

Research into the cosmetic properties of butterfly pea is still developing. A 2021 study examining selected Ayurvedic plant extracts reported that topical application of butterfly pea extract for one hour was associated with an increase in skin hydration of up to 70%.

However, more research is needed to establish the extent of its skincare and hair-care benefits. So, while Aparajita can be an interesting natural skincare ingredient, it shouldn't be considered a substitute for proven dermatological treatments.

How to Make an Aparajita Face Pack

Making the face pack is quite simple.

Ingredients

• Fresh Aparajita flowers or 1–1½ teaspoons of Aparajita flower powder

• A small amount of yogurt

• 1 teaspoon honey

Method

If you're using fresh flowers, wash them thoroughly and grind them into a smooth paste. Alternatively, take the flower powder in a bowl.

Add some yogurt and honey and mix everything until you get a smooth paste. Apply an even layer to your clean face and leave it on for around 15 minutes.

Once it dries, gently remove it with water or a damp, soft cloth. Follow up with your regular moisturizer.

The face pack can be used around two to three times a week if your skin tolerates it.

How to Prepare an Aparajita Homemade Serum

You can also prepare a simple water-based homemade serum using Aparajita flowers and flaxseed.

Ingredients

• 1 glass of water

• 1 teaspoon flaxseed

• Fresh Aparajita flowers or Aparajita flower powder

• Vitamin E capsule, optional

Method

Pour the water into a pan and add the flaxseed. Add the Aparajita flowers or powder and cook the mixture until it becomes slightly thick.

Allow it to cool completely and then strain it using a clean strainer. If you wish, you can add the contents of a vitamin E capsule after the mixture has cooled.

Transfer the preparation to a clean, airtight container.

How to Use the Face Pack and Serum

Use the Aparajita face pack two or three times a week, depending on how your skin responds to it.

The homemade serum can be incorporated into your nighttime skincare routine. Since it contains fresh, water-based ingredients and no proper cosmetic preservative system, store it in the refrigerator and make it in small batches. Discard it if its smell, appearance or texture changes.

Before applying any homemade skincare preparation to your face, do a small patch test first. Stop using it if you experience redness, itching, burning or irritation.

Aparajita may be a beautiful addition to your garden, but its vibrant flowers can also become an interesting ingredient for a simple DIY skincare routine.