**Mas Kotek (Urena lobata): A Traditional Medicinal Herb with Modern Potential**

Abstract

Mas Kotek, scientifically known as Urena lobata L., is a traditional herb widely used in Southeast Asian ethnomedicine. Recognized for its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and reproductive health-supporting properties, this plant has gained attention for its rich phytochemical content. This article provides an overview of Mas Kotek from a botanical, traditional, and pharmacological perspective, including its role in Traditional Malay Medicine (TMM), interpretation in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), nutritional aspects, and modern scientific findings.

1. Botanical Description

Scientific name: Urena lobata L.
Family: Malvaceae
Local names: Mas Kotek (Malay), Caesarweed (English), Pulutan (Tagalog), Rami Kecil (Indonesia)
Distribution: Widely found in tropical Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Common in roadsides, abandoned lands, and forest edges.

Plant Features:

An erect or spreading herbaceous plant, up to 2 meters tall.
Leaves: Palmate, with 3–7 lobes, rough texture.
Flowers: Pink to purple, about 1–2 cm wide.
Fruits: Small, round, covered with stiff hairs (used for seed dispersion).

2. Traditional Malay Medicine (TMM) Uses

In traditional Malay healing practices, Mas Kotek is often regarded as a “herba penguat badan” (body-strengthening herb). Its uses include:

Male reproductive tonic – Roots and leaves used to increase vitality and treat sexual fatigue.
Postpartum care – Decoction for internal cleansing and uterine contraction.
Fever and inflammation – Leaves used as poultice or taken as herbal tea.
Joint and muscle pain – Applied externally for relief.
Diarrhea and dysentery – Root decoction used for gastrointestinal regulation.

3. Interpretation in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Although not commonly referenced in classical Chinese texts, Urena lobata can be analyzed using TCM energetics:

Nature: Cool
Flavour: Bitter, slightly sweet
Meridian tropism: Liver, Spleen, Kidney
Functions:
- Clears heat and toxins
- Promotes urination
- Tonifies Yin (when used in moderation)
- Moves Blood and disperses stasis

It may be indicated for heat-induced joint pain, postpartum blood stasis, or mild damp-heat conditions.

4. Phytochemical Constituents

Urena lobata contains a wide range of bioactive compounds contributing to its therapeutic effects:

Class	Example compounds	Activities
Flavonoids	Kaempferol, quercetin	Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
Triterpenes	Lupeol, β-amyrin	Anti-inflammatory, anticancer
Sterols	β-sitosterol	Hormone modulation, cholesterol control
Phenolics	Gallic acid, ferulic acid	Antioxidant, antimicrobial
Saponins	—	Immune modulation, anti-fatigue
Tannins	—	Astringent, wound healing

5. Nutritional and Elemental Content

Though not widely consumed as food, the plant contains several beneficial minerals and nutrients:

Iron – Supports blood regeneration
Zinc – Immune system function and male reproductive health
Calcium & Magnesium – Musculoskeletal support
Vitamin C – Collagen production and antioxidant protection

6. Pharmacological Properties

Scientific studies have validated many traditional claims about Urena lobata. Notable pharmacological properties include:

Activity	Description
Anti-inflammatory	Reduces cytokine release and tissue inflammation
Antimicrobial	Active against bacteria such as E. coli, S. aureus
Aphrodisiac	Shown to support male reproductive hormone balance
Wound healing	Promotes faster tissue regeneration and reduces scarring
Antidiarrheal	Astringent effect on the digestive tract
Antioxidant	Protects tissues from oxidative stress

7. Methods of Use in Traditional Practice

Plant Part	Preparation	Common Use
Roots	Decoction	Energy tonic, aphrodisiac, postpartum drink
Leaves	Crushed/paste	Poultice for wounds, fever, and swelling
Whole plant	Infusion or boiled	Body cleanser, fever remedy

8. Safety and Precautions

Pregnant women: Should avoid unsupervised use due to uterine-stimulating properties.
Long-term use: Should be monitored as saponins and sterols may affect hormonal levels.
Allergy risk: Mild contact dermatitis reported from hairy fruits.

9. Conclusion

Mas Kotek (Urena lobata) holds significant value in traditional medicine for reproductive health, inflammation control, and wound healing. Its phytochemical profile supports its wide-ranging benefits, making it a promising candidate for further pharmacological exploration. Integrating traditional knowledge with scientific validation may unlock its potential as a modern herbal therapeutic.

References -Compile Chat GPT

Mahato, S. B., & Sen, S. (1997). Advances in triterpenoid research: 1990–1994. Phytochemistry, 44(7), 1185–1236.
Rahmatullah, M., et al. (2013). Medicinal uses of Urena lobata in rural Bangladeshi communities. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 147(3), 814–822.
Zakaria, Z. A., et al. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of Urena lobata. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.
Malaysian Herbal Monograph Committee. (2015). Urena lobata. Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Needles & Herb

Sunday, July 27, 2025