Whiskerplant
StarOrthosiphon aristatus
Synonyms: Ocimum aristatum
Western Herbalism Properties
Traditional Uses
In Indonesian and Malaysian traditional medicine, the dried leaves of Orthosiphon aristatus, known locally as kumis kucing and misai kucing, are taken as an infusion (the so-called Java tea) for kidney and bladder complaints, urinary stones, oedema, gout, and hypertension; the species is listed in the Indonesian Pharmacopoeia and the use of the leaves as an aquaretic and mild anti-inflammatory is supported by the European Medicines Agency monograph on Orthosiphonis folium and by characterised constituents including sinensetin and rosmarinic acid (EMA, 2010; Adnyana et al., 2013).
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Botanical Description
Orthosiphon aristatus, widely known as Java tea, cat's whiskers, kumis kucing (Indonesian) or misai kucing (Malay), is an erect perennial herb of the family Lamiaceae reaching 0.5–1.5 m, native to Southeast Asia and tropical Australia and widely cultivated across the humid tropics. It bears square stems, opposite ovate-lanceolate, coarsely serrate leaves, and terminal racemes of distinctive flowers — white to pale lilac, with extremely long exserted stamens projecting well beyond the corolla like a cat's whiskers, the feature that gives the plant its common names. It thrives in moist sunny lowland conditions and is propagated easily from cuttings.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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