orthosiphon

The orthosiphon (Orthosiphon stamineus), also known as Java Tea, has become popular in recent years for its usefulness in eliminating excess fat. It is native to Malaysia and Indonesia, although it has been used since ancient times in India for kidney and liver diseases.

It is a very aromatic bush, with bluish-white or purple flowers and long stamens. For medicinal purposes, the leaves and flowering tops are used.

Contains potassium salts, an essential oil, flavonoids, organic acids such as rosmarinic, caffeic and ursolic, glycosides, saponins and tannins.

Properties and benefits of orthosiphon or Java tea

The orthosiphon is considered a potent diuretic and anti-inflammatoryappropriate to favor the emission of urine and the elimination of urea and uric acid.

It is also used to reduce inflammation due to fluid retention or edema.

It can be a help when it comes to dissolving kidney stones and, due to its bacteriostatic action, stopping urinary infections.

What is orthosiphon used for?

The orthosiphon is indicated in cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis and urolithiasisbut also as support in the treatment of benign prostate adenoma.

Orthosiphon is also used to help lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterolas well as in rheumatism, gout and hepatobiliary disorderssuch as gallstones.

But its most popular use is as an adjuvant in the overweight treatment, accompanying slimming diets. java tea It has a certain lipolytic action, as it helps to break down excess fat accumulated in cells and to lose fluids..

For all these uses the dried plant in infusion or in the form of liquid extract, tincture and capsules.

orthosiphon to lose weight

By combining orthosiphon with birch, fucus, frangula and star anise, a purifying infusion can be prepared that helps cleanse the body, combat fluid retention and eliminate excess fat. Star anise acts as a flavor corrector.

How to prepare it: Add a tablespoon per cup of water and, when it starts to boil, add the plant and let it rest for 8-10 minutes. Two glasses are taken daily, after lunch and dinner.

Other orthosiphon infusions

Infusion for kidney stones and pain in mild renal colic

You can combine orthosiphon with horsetail, stone grass (Silene Saxifraga) and mint.

How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of the mixture per glass of water for 1 minute, let it rest for another 10 minutes and strain. It is taken throughout the day, in small amounts.

Java tea for cystitis

You can associate orthosiphon with bearberry and heather and add star anise to sweeten the bitter taste.

How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of the mixture per glass of water for 1 minute, let it rest for another 10 minutes and strain. It is taken throughout the day, in small amounts.

Contraindications and precautions

Due to its tannin content, it can cause gastric irritation; in this case, it is advisable to associate it with mucilaginous plants such as plantain or marshmallow.

His bitterness It can cause nausea or vomiting, so it must be combined with plants that reduce its flavor, such as anise, orange or mint, or take it in pill form.

should be avoided in case of heart or kidney failureor if there is obstruction of the bile ducts.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”