Orthosiphon: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Other name(s)
Java tea
Scientific name(s)
Orthosiphon stamineus
Family or group:
Plants
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Urinary tract infections, Urinary disorders ✪✪✪✪✪
Orthosiphon, known for its diuretic and antimicrobial properties, is traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections and relieve urinary disorders. Flavonoids, such as the sinensetin, increase diuresis and promote the elimination of pathogenic bacteria. An infusion made from dried leaves, consumed several times a day, helps reduce symptoms such as burning during urination and the sensation of incomplete voiding. Studies also show its beneficial effect on preventing recurrent urinary tract infections by increasing bladder emptying. The use of a combination of plants containing orthosiphon (90 mg/dry extract) in a standardized product was studied to treat urinary tract 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 a lower need for antibiotics (15% versus 49% in the placebo group). This efficacy includes an improvement in dysuria and a reduction in suprapubic pain.
Posologie
Oral administration
2 g
infusion, dry extract
Synergies
Water retention ✪✪✪✪✪
Thanks to its natural diuretic properties, orthosiphon stimulates the excretion of water and electrolytes, particularly sodium and potassium. This effect helps reduce edema caused by fluid retention, often associated with heart or kidney disorders. nnClinical trials have confirmed that doses of 2 to 3 g of dried leaves as an infusion increase diuresis without disturbing electrolyte balance, making it a safe alternative for treating water retention.nn
Posologie
Oral use
2 g
infusion
High blood pressure ✪✪✪✪✪
By increasing renal sodium excretion, orthosiphon helps reduce blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure. Traditionally used as an infusion to treat mild hypertension, the plant also works thanks to its flavonoids and saponins, which have mild vasodilatory effects. nn
Posologie
Oral use
2 g
infusion
Properties
Uricosuric effect
Orthosiphon promotes the elimination of uric acid through the urine thanks to its action on the renal tubules. Its flavonoids, such as 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 helps reduce fluid retention and improves kidney function.
Usages associés
Antimicrobial
Orthosiphon shows antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria responsible for urinary tract 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 reduce acute and chronic inflammation.
Safe dosage
Adult: 2 g - 3 g (infusion)
For adults, it is recommended to prepare an infusion using 2 to 3 g of dried leaves of orthosiphon in 150 ml of water hot. This infusion can be consumed two to three times per day as needed.nn
Precautions
Pregnancy: avoid
No data available. In accordance with general medical practice, orthosiphon should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice.nn
Breastfeeding: avoid
No data available. In accordance with general medical practice, orthosiphon should not be used while breastfeeding without medical advice.
