Isolation and Characterization of Renal Protective Compounds from Orthosiphon stamineus Leaves: A Traditional Medicinal Plant

Background: Orthosiphon stamineus, also known as "cat’s whiskers," is traditionally used in several Asian countries, including India, China, Malaysia, and Thailand, for managing conditions like diabetes and chronic renal failure. This plant is rich in bioactive compounds and is believed to possess nephroprotective properties. Its use in traditional medicine, particularly for renal and metabolic health, necessitates empirical validation to support its therapeutic potential. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective effects of an ethanolic extract and a purified bioactive compound derived from Orthosiphon stamineus. Diabetes was induced in rats through a High Fat Diet (HFD) and Streptozotocin (STZ) injection, simulating metabolic and renal complications similar to those in diabetic nephropathy. The effects of the ethanolic extract and the isolated compound were examined by measuring biomarkers related to renal function (urea and creatinine), blood glucose, and cholesterol levels Results: The ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon stamineus significantly lowered urea, creatinine, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels in diabetic rats. The isolated bioactive compound demonstrated notable hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and renal protective effects. These therapeutic benefits are attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and anthraquinones within the plant, which contribute to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Conclusion: The findings of this research support the traditional use of Orthosiphon stamineus as a kidney-protecting agent. The observed nephroprotective, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects validate its historical application in managing diabetes-related complications. Further studies may explore the mechanisms behind these effects, which could support the development of alternative therapeutic options for diabetic nephropathy and related conditions.