Product guide
Orthosiphon aristatus
Whole cat's whiskers leaf — a light, green, gently bitter everyday infusion from Southeast Asia.
Botanical story · current research
Java tea is an upright tropical herb with serrated leaves and long white-to-lilac stamens that give the flower its cat’s-whiskers appearance. Orthosiphon aristatus belongs to the mint family and carries a fresh herbal aroma with a measured, pleasant bitterness. The leaf is the principal part dried for infusion.
Orthosiphon aristatus
Southeast Asia
Known as kumis kucing in Indonesia and used across Malaysia and Thailand, the plant belongs to Southeast Asia’s long herbal-drink tradition. The leaves are brewed as a light everyday infusion, often served warm or chilled in tropical weather. Citrus, mint or a little lemongrass can brighten its clean green profile.
Leaf · whole dried tea
Fresh leaves can be brewed soon after harvest, while dried whole or cut leaf is easier to store and measure. A moderate infusion keeps the cup fresh; excessive time or heat makes the natural bitterness more prominent. The form changes convenience, but the story remains centred on the leaf of Orthosiphon aristatus.
Latest useful research
We prioritise the newest credible source we can find and state clearly whether it is human, animal, laboratory or review evidence.
Network and molecular simulation study; clinical confirmation is needed.
Open the research ↗A study of an extract, cell or animal model is not the same as eating or drinking the plant. It can still be valuable evidence when described accurately.
From plant to kitchen
Flavour profile
How to prepare
Use 1–2 g (roughly a heaped teaspoon) per 250 ml at 90 °C.
Steep 5 minutes — longer pushes the bitterness forward without adding flavour.
A slice of lemon or a little lemongrass lifts the green profile.
Ways to use it
Further watching & reading
