Herbs (Global Traditional) · Jamu
Orthosiphon stamineus (Java Tea)
Moderate Evidencebotanical
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus) contains rosmarinic acid and flavonoids that inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes to regulate blood sugar. This traditional Jamu herb demonstrates diuretic effects and anti-adhesive activity supporting kidney and urinary tract health.
Orthosiphon stamineus, commonly known as Java Tea, is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family native to tropical Asia, including Southeast Asia, southern Africa, Madagascar, and northeastern Australia. The medicinal parts are primarily the dried leaves and twig tips, extracted using solvents like water, ethanol, methanol, or chloroform to concentrate bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, diterpenes, and essential oils.
The research dossier reveals a notable gap: no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses are documented for Orthosiphon stamineus. All available evidence comes from preclinical studies, including antidiabetic effects in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, antihypertensive effects in animal models, and in vitro antiadhesive activity against uropathogenic bacteria (PMID: 34521130).
No clinically studied human dosage ranges are available. Preclinical studies used 1000 mg/kg in diabetic rats and 2 mg/mL extracts for glucose uptake assays. Traditional preparations typically involve leaf infusions with rosmarinic acid content measured at 243 ± 22 µg/mL. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Java Tea's rosmarinic acid and sinensetin inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, reducing carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption. The herb's potassium content and flavonoids promote diuresis by increasing renal sodium excretion. Eupholin and other compounds exhibit anti-adhesive properties against bacterial adherence to urinary tract epithelium.
Animal studies demonstrate significant glucose reduction in diabetic rats at 1000 mg/kg doses, with α-glucosidase inhibition reaching 70% in vitro. Traditional diuretic effects are supported by preclinical studies showing increased urine output and electrolyte excretion. Limited human clinical data exists, with most evidence from traditional use patterns and laboratory studies. Current research lacks large-scale randomized controlled trials in human populations.
Java Tea is generally well-tolerated with mild diuretic effects as the primary side effect. Potential interactions with diabetes medications may cause hypoglycemia due to additive glucose-lowering effects. Concurrent use with diuretics or blood pressure medications requires monitoring for excessive fluid loss or hypotension. Safety during pregnancy and lactation is not established, requiring medical supervision.