Cat’s beard is included in numerous tea preparations of the group “Bladder and kidney tea”. The plant is also often found in combination with birch leaves and goldenrod herb. Furthermore, orthosiphon leaves are found in various combination preparations of the indication “Urologica”, for example, in the form of capsules, dragées or tablets.
Average daily dose
The average daily dose is 6-12 g of the drug, unless otherwise prescribed.
Orthosiphon – preparation as a tea
To prepare a tea from orthosiphon leaves, 2-3 g of the finely chopped leaves (1 teaspoon is about 1 g) are poured over boiling water and allowed to steep covered for 5-20 minutes. Then the whole is passed through a tea strainer.
To achieve a therapeutic effect, one cup of the tea should be drunk several times a day.
Contraindications: When should Orthosiphon not be used?
Cat’s whiskers should not be used in cases of edema (water retention in tissues) due to impaired heart and kidney function.
During pregnancy and lactation, the drug should be taken only after consulting a doctor, if possible.
Special notes
During treatment with orthosiphon leaves, ensure adequate fluid intake: During flushing therapy, at least 2 liters of fluid should be consumed daily, but not beverages containing caffeine or alcohol.
The leaves should be stored dry and protected from light.