Influence of Harvest Age, Extraction Method and Solvent Polarity on the Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Orthosiphon aristatus Extracts

Farhan , Syamsudin , Fahrauk Farayamuda, Nancy Yuliana and Lilik Sulastri

Background and Objective: The rising prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Indonesia highlights the urgent need for effective, natural therapeutic options. This study evaluates the antidiabetic potential of Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. (cat’s whiskers) by analyzing the effects of harvest age, extraction method and solvent polarity on its ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes-key targets in diabetes management. Materials and Methods: Tissue-cultured O. aristatus plants harvested at 6 and 9 months were subjected to three extraction methods: Ultrasonic-assisted, maceration and infusion, using solvents of varying polarity (water, 30 and 70% ethanol). Extract yields and inhibitory activities were assessed and IC values were determined using standard in vitro enzyme inhibition assays. Data were analyzed statistically to compare extraction efficiency and biological activity. Results: Ultrasonic extraction with 30% ethanol from 9-month-old plants produced the most effective extract, yielding 10% extract with strong inhibitory activity: IC values of 64.35 ppm (α-amylase) and 64.68 ppm (α-glucosidase). Both harvest age and extraction parameters significantly influenced extract potency. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that harvest age and extraction strategy critically affect the antidiabetic efficacy of O. aristatus extracts. These findings support its potential as a complementary therapy in diabetes management and provide direction for optimized extraction protocols in future pharmacological applications.

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