Orthosiphon stamineus is a traditional herb that is widely grown in tropical areas. The two general species, Orthosiphon stamineus "purple" and Orthosiphon stamineus "white" are traditionally used to treat diabetes, kidney and urinary disorders, high blood pressure and bone or muscular pain.
Also known as Java tea, it was possibly introduced to the west in the early 20th century. Misai Kucing is popularly consumed as a herbal tea. The brewing of Java tea is similar to that for other teas. It is soaked in hot boiling water for about three minutes, and honey or milk is then added. It can be easily prepared as garden tea from the dried leaves. There are quite a number of commercial products derived from Misai Kucing.
Sinensetin is a polyphenol found in O. stamineus.[1]
[edit] References
- ^ The effects of different extraction solvents of varying polarities on polyphenols of Orthosiphon stamineus and evaluation of the free radical-scavenging activity. G.A. Akowuah, Z. Ismail, I. Norhayati and A. Sadikun, Food Chemistry, Volume 93, Issue 2, November 2005, Pages 311-317, doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2004.09.028
[edit] External links
picture: Orthosiphon Stamineus (Misai Kucing)
