A Scoping Review : Pharmacology and Ethnomedicine of Orthosiphon aristatus

Abstract

Orthosiphon aristatus, commonly known as cat’s whiskers, is a medicinal plant widely utilized in the pharmaceutical field due to its active compounds with diverse pharmacological effects. This study aimed to analyze the pharmacological potential of O. aristatus through a PRISMA-guided Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Relevant literature was collected and qualitatively analyzed. Findings indicate that O. aristatus leaf extract is commonly prepared using ethanol as the solvent through maceration, owing to the presence of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. Pharmacological tests on white rats (Rattus norvegicus) demonstrated diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activities. The diuretic effect was observed through increased urine output, while anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities were indicated by reduced inflammatory mediators and blood glucose levels. Flavonoids are believed to play a major role in the antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, whereas saponins and tannins contribute to anti-inflammatory activity. Maceration proved to be an effective extraction method for these active compounds. In conclusion, O. aristatus demonstrates strong potential as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic agent. Nevertheless, further research, particularly human clinical trials, is required to confirm its safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage for therapeutic use.