Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Java Tea (Orthosiphon aristatus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Lamiaceae
  • Common Names: Java Tea, Cat’s Whiskers, Kumis Kucing
  • Parts Used: Leaves

Description

Orthosiphon aristatus, commonly known as Java tea, is a medicinal herb native to Southeast Asia and tropical regions of Australia. Traditionally used for kidney and urinary health, Java tea is a well-known diuretic and anti-inflammatory herb that supports detoxification and metabolic balance.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Southeast Asian herbal medicine for kidney and urinary tract health.
  • Traditionally employed as a natural diuretic to promote detoxification.
  • Used in Indonesian and Malaysian medicine to manage blood sugar and blood pressure.
  • Applied in folk medicine for treating joint pain and inflammation.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids (sinensetin)
  • Rosmarinic acid
  • Polyphenols
  • Essential oils
  • Potassium salts
  • Saponins

Actions

  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant
  • Hypotensive
  • Hypoglycemic
  • Antimicrobial

Medicinal Uses

1. Kidney and Urinary Tract Support:
Java tea is widely used as a natural diuretic, helping to flush toxins, prevent kidney stones, and relieve urinary tract infections.

2. Blood Pressure Regulation:
Helps reduce hypertension by promoting fluid balance and supporting cardiovascular health.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Used to ease joint inflammation, particularly in arthritis and gout.

4. Blood Sugar Management:
Traditionally used to help balance blood glucose levels in diabetics.

5. Liver Detoxification:
Promotes liver function and supports the body’s natural detox pathways.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied to swollen joints and inflamed areas.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure further in hypotensive individuals.
  • Dehydration Risk: As a diuretic, prolonged use may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible; discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Southeast Asian Medicine: Cooling and detoxifying; supports kidney, liver, and metabolic health.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears dampness and heat, promotes fluid circulation.

Combinations

  • For Urinary Health: Combine with dandelion and nettle.
  • For Blood Pressure Regulation: Combine with hibiscus and hawthorn.
  • For Blood Sugar Management: Combine with cinnamon and fenugreek.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are collected during the growing season and used fresh or dried.
  • Drying: Air dry leaves in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Orthosiphon aristatus’s diuretic, antioxidant, and blood sugar-regulating properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Java Tea remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for kidney health, metabolic balance, and cardiovascular support.