RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The cat's whiskers plant (Orthosiphon aristatus) has been in the spotlight as a natural solution for maintaining kidney and urinary tract health, as cases of frequent urination, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney stones increase due to modern lifestyles characterized by minimal physical activity and insufficient water intake. This herbal plant, which has been used for generations in Indonesia, is known to possess natural diuretic properties that stimulate urine production while helping to remove toxins, bacteria, and excess minerals that cause kidney stones from the body.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2016 confirmed that the pharmacological properties of cat's whiskers, also known by its scientific name Orthosiphon stamineus, extend beyond its diuretic effects. Clinical and preclinical research found that this plant also possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiangiogenic activities, making it a strong candidate as a complementary therapy for kidney and urinary tract disorders.

Modern lifestyles are said to be a major risk factor behind the increasing number of disorders of the body's excretory system. The habit of holding in urine, lack of physical activity, and insufficient daily water consumption make the kidneys and bladder susceptible to the buildup of bacteria and mineral crystals, which can lead to infection or the formation of kidney stones.

This is where cat's whiskers are considered crucial. The natural diuretic properties of this plant work by stimulating the kidneys to produce more urine, thereby increasing the volume of fluid excreted from the body. This process directly helps remove bacteria, toxins, and excess minerals such as calcium and uric acid, which are the main culprits in kidney stone formation.

Furthermore, research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology examined the main phytochemicals in cat's whiskers leaves: rosmarinic acid and sinensetin. These two flavonoid compounds have been scientifically proven to lower serum uric acid levels and inhibit the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidney nephrons, which are the precursors to kidney stones.

The anti-inflammatory effects of cat's whiskers have also been found to be effective in relieving local inflammation of the bladder tissue, known as cystitis. This combination of diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects makes cat's whiskers superior to conventional synthetic diuretics, as it not only addresses symptoms but also targets the root cause of inflammation that causes urinary tract disorders.

However, the use of cat's whiskers as a herbal remedy still has limitations. If symptoms such as difficulty urinating, lower back pain, or bloody urine do not improve within 3-5 days of consuming this herbal remedy, people are advised to immediately consult a medical professional. Persistent symptoms may indicate kidney stones that are too large to pass naturally, or a persistent bacterial infection that requires prescription antibiotic therapy.

Herbal products made from cat's whiskers are now conveniently available through the Halodoc Health Store, without having to leave home. Furthermore, people experiencing kidney or urinary tract complaints can consult directly with a doctor through the Halodoc app, who will help evaluate symptoms, prescribe appropriate medication, and recommend additional tests such as an ultrasound or urine test if necessary.