coleus forskohlii

Coleus forskohlii is a perennial plant in the mint family native to India and Southeast Asia. Its root contains the active compound forskolin. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for conditions such as asthma and heart disease[1][5], modern research has focused on its potential effects on weight loss[3], asthma[1][4], glaucoma[1], hypertension[2][4], and other conditions. The primary mechanism of action is through activation of adenylate cyclase by forskolin—the main bioactive constituent—leading to increased intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels[5][6]. This elevation in cAMP mediates bronchodilation (airway relaxation), vasodilation (widening blood vessels), positive inotropic effects (increased heart contractility), antiplatelet activity (reduced blood clotting), and may influence metabolic processes related to fat burning and insulin sensitivity. Preclinical studies also suggest possible anti-cancer properties via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction in certain cancer cells[5]. Despite these proposed uses and mechanisms of action for both the whole herb extract and isolated forskolin compound(s), robust clinical evidence supporting efficacy for any indication remains limited.

Brand names

ForsLeanGlucoLeanMeta-Burn EFEle-maxAsthma X-5Interex

Other names

Coleus barbatusPlectranthus barbatus AndrewsPlectranthus forskalaeiPlectranthus grandisPlectranthus kilimandschariAdel InjIndian coleusMakandiMao hou qiao rui huapashanabhedi