Java Tea Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Orthosiphon stamineus, Orthosiphon aristatus, Java Tea, Cat’s Whiskers, Kidney Tea Plant
Overview
Java Tea, derived from Orthosiphon stamineus, is a plant native to Southeast Asia. The glycerite liquid extract is prepared using glycerin as a solvent to preserve water-soluble constituents. Traditionally, it's used for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, supporting kidney and urinary tract health, reducing inflammation, and potentially aiding metabolic and joint conditions. Key bioactive compounds include flavonoids (sinensetin, eupatorin), rosmarinic acid, and other polyphenols. Research is moderately mature, with mostly preclinical and animal studies, and limited high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The available evidence consists mainly of preclinical and small-scale clinical studies, lacking systematic reviews or meta-analyses.
Benefits
Java Tea glycerite liquid extract exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. A preclinical study in rats demonstrated that Orthosiphon stamineus aqueous extract reduced inflammation and cartilage degradation in an osteoarthritis model, suggesting potential benefits for joint health. The extract also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) release in cartilage explants under inflammatory conditions. While traditional use suggests potential diuretic effects and support for kidney function, high-quality clinical evidence is lacking. A postmenopausal osteoarthritis rat model indicates potential benefits for older adults with joint degeneration, but human data are insufficient. Effect sizes and clinical significance are not established in humans due to the lack of large RCTs. In animal models, effects were observed after 4 weeks of treatment.
How it works
The anti-inflammatory action of Java Tea is likely mediated by the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and the reduction of oxidative stress markers. It acts on joint cartilage cells to reduce degradation and oxidative damage and may influence renal function through diuretic effects. Known molecular targets include inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-1β) and oxidative stress pathways. Glycerite extracts preserve water-soluble compounds; however, detailed pharmacokinetic data in humans are lacking.
Side effects
Java Tea is generally regarded as safe based on traditional use and limited animal studies, with no major adverse effects reported in preclinical studies. Common side effects are not well documented, but glycerite extracts tend to be well-tolerated. Uncommon and rare side effects lack significant data. Potential interactions with diuretics or anti-inflammatory drugs are possible but not well-studied. No specific contraindications are documented. Safety in pregnancy, lactation, and children has not been established. Caution is advised when combining with other diuretics due to potential additive effects.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Java Tea glycerite extract is not established in humans. An animal study used 150-300 mg/kg of aqueous extract; human equivalent doses and glycerite extract dosing are not standardized. The maximum safe dose is also not established. Typically, it is administered daily, with durations in studies ranging from weeks to months. Glycerite liquid extract is convenient for oral administration, and no specific absorption enhancers are noted. No required cofactors have been identified. Due to limited human data, it is best to start with a low dose and monitor for any adverse effects.
FAQs
Is Java Tea glycerite extract effective for osteoarthritis?
Preclinical evidence suggests potential benefit, but no robust human RCT data exist to confirm its effectiveness for osteoarthritis.
Is it safe to use daily?
Likely safe in moderate amounts, but clinical safety data are limited. Monitor for any adverse effects and consult with a healthcare provider.
How long before effects are seen?
Animal studies showed effects after 4 weeks; human data are lacking, so the timeline for effects in humans is currently unknown.
Does glycerite extraction affect potency?
Glycerite preserves water-soluble compounds and is suitable for liquid herbal extracts, potentially maintaining the potency of the active ingredients.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29380171/ – This preclinical study investigated the effects of Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus) extract on osteoarthritis in rats. The study found that the extract reduced cartilage degradation, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species in an osteoarthritis model, suggesting potential benefits for joint health. This indicates that Java Tea may have therapeutic potential for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.
- https://www.ubuy.bf/en/product/8ELTN9NAC-java-tea-orthosiphon-glycerite-liquid-extract-1-5-no-flavor-1-oz-zin-523356 – This is a product listing for Java Tea (Orthosiphon) Glycerite Liquid Extract. It provides information about the product's form (liquid extract) and intended use as a dietary supplement. No research data is available on this page.
- https://archive.org/download/yearboophak03ameruoft/yearboophak03ameruoft_djvu.txt – This archive contains information about pharmacognosy and herbal medicine. It may contain information about the traditional uses and chemical constituents of Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus). Further review of the text is needed to extract specific details.
- https://archive.org/stream/sim_icis-chemical-business_1925-08-31_108_9/sim_icis-chemical-business_1925-08-31_108_9_djvu.txt – This archive contains chemical and business information from 1925. It is unlikely to contain relevant research data on Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus). This source is not relevant to the efficacy or safety of Java Tea.
- http://www.ured-douala.com/download/Eric%20Yarnell,%20Kathy%20Abascal,%20Carol%20G.%20Hooper-Clinical%20Botanical%20Medicine-Mary%20Ann%20Liebert,%20Inc.%20(2003).pdf – This is a textbook on clinical botanical medicine. It may contain information about the traditional uses, chemical constituents, and potential therapeutic applications of Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus). Further review of the text is needed to extract specific details.