Orthosiphon
Also known as: Cat's Whiskers, Misai Kucing, Kidney Tea, *Orthosiphon aristatus*, *Orthosiphon stamineus*
Overview
*Orthosiphon stamineus* is a plant native to Southeast Asia, recognized for its traditional use in folk medicine for treating various ailments such as rheumatism, diabetes, hypertension, and renal issues. Known for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and hypoglycemic properties, this herbal supplement is gathered from the leaves, which can be consumed as tea or in capsule form. Research maturity on *Orthosiphon stamineus* includes preclinical and experimental studies, alongside limited clinical trials, indicating a need for more substantial human studies to establish its efficacy firmly. The primary research demonstrates its potential benefits in neuroprotection, blood pressure, and blood sugar regulation.
Benefits
Significant evidence supports several benefits of *Orthosiphon stamineus*. Neuroprotective studies indicate its extracts can decrease neurodegeneration and oxidative stress, contributing to improved cognitive function. Antidiabetic properties are showcased by the plant’s ability to inhibit digestive enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase, suggesting strong potential for managing blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Additionally, a clinical trial demonstrated notable hypotensive effects, with average reductions in blood pressure of 3.1 mmHg after eight weeks of supplementation. While evidence is robust for these primary effects, secondary benefits include renal protection and anti-inflammatory effects, enhancing its therapeutic profile.
How it works
*Orthosiphon stamineus* operates through multiple mechanisms, including the inhibition of enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase, facilitating better glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions protect against cellular oxidative stress, particularly within the CNS. Additionally, it modulates gut microbiota and inhibits ferroptosis, promoting renal health. Collectively, these actions aid in managing diabetes, hypertension, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Side effects
Generally considered safe, *Orthosiphon stamineus* has limited reports of adverse effects. Common side effects (>5%) are scarce, with few long-term safety data available. Uncommon side effects may include mild gastrointestinal disturbances, likely due to its diuretic properties. Rare side effects (<1%) have not been documented. Caution is advised for individuals taking diabetes or hypertension medications, as it may cause significant interactions. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data, and those with severe liver or kidney diseases should approach with caution. Regular monitoring is suggested for diabetic and hypertensive patients.
Dosage
While a definitive minimum effective dose is not established, studies have used varying extract concentrations, with dosages around 2-8 g/kg/day noted in animal research. Clinical applications vary depending on formulation, as many studies have combined *Orthosiphon stamineus* with other compounds. No specific timing is required for intake; it is commonly included in daily regimens. Common forms include extracts, teas, and capsules, each potentially differing in bioavailability. Traditional usage suggests well-tolerated doses generally span several grams per day, although maximum safe limits have not been definitively determined.
FAQs
What are the common side effects of *Orthosiphon stamineus*?
There are limited reports of common side effects, but potential gastrointestinal disturbances may occur due to its diuretic properties.
How should *Orthosiphon stamineus* be taken?
There are no specific timing recommendations; it can be consumed as part of a daily regimen, typically as tea or in supplement form.
What benefits can I expect from using *Orthosiphon stamineus*?
Users may experience improved blood sugar control, reduced blood pressure, and neuroprotective effects, though results can vary individually.
Is *Orthosiphon stamineus* safe to use long-term?
While generally safe, long-term use requires caution, and consult a healthcare provider if you are on medications or have underlying health issues.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.00692/full – This systematic review summarizes the neuroprotective effects of *Orthosiphon stamineus* highlighting its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, drawing upon preclinical studies. However, it emphasizes the absence of human trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35056765/ – The review discusses the antidiabetic effects of *Orthosiphon stamineus*, showcasing its capacity to inhibit digestive enzymes and regulate lipid metabolism based on a comprehensive analysis of existing literature.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1392123/full – In this clinical trial, 60 hypertensive individuals demonstrated significant blood pressure reductions after 8 weeks of supplementation with *Orthosiphon stamineus*, indicating potential for use in managing hypertension.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ptr.7951 – This study explores the renal protective capabilities of *Orthosiphon stamineus*, demonstrating improvements in renal function and potential mechanisms of action involving gut microbiota modulation.
- https://journals.lww.com/jpbs/fulltext/2021/13040/an_in_vitro_study_of_orthosiphon_stamineus__misai.6.aspx – An in vitro study on *Orthosiphon stamineus* reveals its effective antioxidative properties, suggesting its potential role in combating oxidative stress-related diseases.
