Misai kucing
Scientific name: Orthosiphon aristatus
Tamil name: Punai misai
Chinese name: Mao xu cao
Herbal and medicinal uses:
Treating ailments of kidney, bladder stone, urinary tract infection, bladder problems
Treating liver problems
Treating diabetes
Treating rheumatism
Teh Misai Kucing (Java tea)
This is a local tea used by the Malays. This tea recipe is by Chew Jia Xin, a new first year medical student.
Steps to Make Java Tea (teh Misai Kucing)
- by Chew Jia Xin, Year 1 Medic, USM, 13 Sept 2011
1. Pluck the ‘Misai Kucing’ leaves.
2. Tear the leaves into smaller pieces if the size of the leaves is too big.
3. Wash it thoroughly and dry it under the sun.
4. Place the dried leaves into a pot of water and then boil it. After boiling, it is ready to be served.
OR
Put some dried leaves into a tea pot and then pour water that has just been boiled into it.
My comments:
Here is what the real Misai kucing plant looks like in my backyard. It grows wild! When the bush grows really wild, just trim the bush and pluck the leaves for making tea. The plant does not die but regrows to full height in a few weeks. The plants grows best in the hot Malaysian weather, in semi sandy soils or poor soil. There is no need to add any fertiliser. The plant seems to prefer hot areas with plenty of morning and evening sunshine. Daily watering is not needed or the plant grows too bushy. Occasional watering is preferred. Insects feed on the leaves (don't know what insects). This plant needs no tender loving care. It grows wild by itself. Propagation is easy - just pluck an old stem and stick it in the ground. It seems to take root fast. You should have no regrets trying to grow this plant. Give it a try. You can also purchase a potted Misai kucing plant from Pasar Tani.
 |
| Misai kucing (Orthosiphon stamineus) with white flowers which resemble cat whiskers |
 |
| Misai kucing bush without flowers |
