Orthosiphon: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Other name(s)
Java tea
Scientific name(s)
Orthosiphon stamineus
Family or group:
Plants
Indications
Rating methodology
EFSA approval.
Urinary infections, Urinary disorders ✪✪✪✪✪
Known for its diuretic and antimicrobial properties, orthosiphon is traditionally used to treat urinary infections and relieve urinary disorders. The flavonoids, such as sinensetin, increase diuresis and promote the elimination of pathogenic bacteria. An infusion made from dried leaves, consumed several times a day, helps reduce symptoms like urinary burning and the sensation of incomplete urination. Studies also show its beneficial effect on the prevention of recurrent urinary infections by increasing bladder emptying. The use of plant combinations containing orthosiphon (90 mg/dry extract) in a standardized product has been studied for treating urinary infections in 200 adult women. The recommended dose was two tablets, three times a day, for seven days. Results: a significant reduction in symptoms (ACSS score) from the first day and less need for antibiotics (15% versus 49% in the placebo group). This effectiveness includes an improvement in dysuria and a reduction in suprapubic pain.
Posologie
Orally
2 g
herbal tea, dry extract
Synergies
Water retention ✪✪✪✪✪
Thanks to its natural diuretic properties, orthosiphon stimulates the excretion of water and electrolytes, notably sodium and potassium. This effect helps reduce edema caused by water retention, often associated with heart or renal disorders. Clinical trials have confirmed that doses of 2 to 3 g of dried leaves in infusion increase diuresis without disturbing the electrolyte balance, which makes it a safe alternative for treating water retention.
Posologie
Orally
2 g
herbal tea
Hypertension ✪✪✪✪✪
By increasing renal excretion of sodium, orthosiphon helps reduce blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure. Traditionally used in infusion to treat moderate hypertension, the plant also acts through its flavonoids and saponins, which have mild vasodilatory effects.
Posologie
Orally
2 g
herbal tea
Properties
Uricosuric effect
Orthosiphon promotes the elimination of uric acid through urine thanks to its action on the renal tubules. Its flavonoids, like sinensetin, increase glomerular filtration and inhibit tubular reabsorption, thus reducing blood uric acid levels.
Usages associés
Diuretic
The phenolic compounds and flavonoids of orthosiphon stimulate diuresis by increasing urinary excretion of sodium and potassium. This action promotes reduced water retention and improves kidney function.
Usages associés
Antimicrobial
Orthosiphon presents antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria responsible for urinary infections, such as Escherichia coli. Its bioactive compounds, including diterpenes, disrupt the bacterial membrane and inhibit their growth.
Usages associés
Anti-inflammatory
The flavonoids and diterpenes of orthosiphon inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and TNF-alpha. This action helps to reduce acute and chronic inflammation.
Safety dosage
Adult: 2 g - 3 g (infusion)
For adults, it is advisable to prepare an infusion using 2 to 3 g of dried orthosiphon leaves in 150 ml of hot water. This infusion can be consumed two to three times a day as needed.
Precautions
Pregnant woman: avoid
No data available. In accordance with general medical practice, orthosiphon should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice.
Breastfeeding woman: avoid
No data available. In accordance with general medical practice, orthosiphon should not be used during breastfeeding without medical advice.
