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Coleus forskohlii extract

Also known as: Plectranthus forskohlii, Plectranthus barbatus, Indian coleus, forskolin, Coleus forskohlii

Overview

Coleus forskohlii is a plant native to India, traditionally used in medicine, and is the primary source of forskolin. Forskolin is a diterpenoid compound known for its ability to activate adenylate cyclase, thereby increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels. This mechanism influences various physiological processes, including metabolism and fat breakdown. It is primarily marketed as a supplement for weight management and metabolic health, with some historical use for asthma and cardiovascular conditions. While some research suggests potential benefits in improving glucose metabolism and reducing fat cell diameter, particularly in animal models, high-quality human clinical trials are still limited. The current evidence base is moderate, with a need for more robust studies to confirm its efficacy and safety across its purported applications.

Benefits

Research suggests that Coleus forskohlii, primarily through its active compound forskolin, may offer several benefits, particularly in metabolic health. Studies in mice have indicated that forskolin can improve glucose metabolism and reduce fat cell diameter, suggesting a role in combating diet-induced obesity. Limited human studies have shown potential in reducing central obesity and improving certain metabolic parameters in overweight or obese individuals. For instance, one clinical trial aimed to evaluate its effects on appetite suppression and metabolic risk factors. While specific effect sizes are not well-established, these findings point towards a potential for improved body composition and metabolic function. Secondary benefits may include a reduction in appetite and improvements in lipid profiles, though more rigorous research is needed to substantiate these claims. The time course for observing potential benefits in human trials is typically around 12 weeks. The strength of evidence is currently variable, with a greater need for large-scale, high-quality human trials to confirm these effects and establish clinical significance.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Coleus forskohlii is attributed to its active compound, forskolin. Forskolin directly activates adenylate cyclase, an enzyme responsible for converting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) into cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Increased intracellular cAMP levels then trigger a cascade of downstream effects, influencing various cellular processes. In the context of metabolism, elevated cAMP can stimulate hormone-sensitive lipase, leading to the breakdown of stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol, thus promoting fat burning. It also plays a role in glucose metabolism and can affect thyroid function. By interacting with these metabolic pathways, forskolin may influence fat storage, energy expenditure, and glucose regulation. While generally taken orally, specific data on its absorption and bioavailability are limited.

Side effects

The overall safety profile of Coleus forskohlii and its active compound, forskolin, is generally considered safe, but comprehensive high-quality clinical trial data are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but potential cardiovascular effects such as tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) have been noted, particularly with forskolin derivatives. Uncommon and rare side effects are also not extensively documented, though embryo-related toxicity has been reported in some contexts. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised due to its mechanism of action. Forskolin should be avoided in patients with polycystic kidney disease. Due to insufficient safety data, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should exercise extreme caution or avoid use due to the potential for cardiac effects. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for Coleus forskohlii extract is not definitively established, but human studies commonly use 250 mg of a 10% forskolin extract, taken twice daily. This dosage provides 50 mg of active forskolin per day. This regimen is often studied for its potential metabolic effects. The optimal dosage range is generally considered to be 250 mg twice daily. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined, and high doses in animal studies have been observed to decrease food intake and increase blood triglycerides, suggesting potential adverse effects at higher concentrations. Timing considerations typically involve taking the supplement twice daily, often with meals. Oral capsules are the most common form of administration. Information regarding specific absorption factors or required cofactors for optimal efficacy is limited.

FAQs

What is the primary active ingredient in Coleus forskohlii?

The primary active ingredient is forskolin, a compound known for its ability to activate adenylate cyclase and increase cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels in cells.

Can Coleus forskohlii help with weight loss?

Some studies suggest potential benefits in reducing central obesity and improving metabolic parameters, but more high-quality human research is needed to confirm its efficacy as a weight loss aid.

What are the main side effects to be aware of?

Potential cardiovascular effects like tachycardia and arrhythmias have been noted. It should be avoided in pregnancy, lactation, and individuals with polycystic kidney disease.

What is a typical dosage for Coleus forskohlii?

A common dosage used in studies is 250 mg of a 10% forskolin extract, taken twice daily, often with meals.

Who should avoid taking Coleus forskohlii?

Individuals who are pregnant or lactating, those with polycystic kidney disease, and potentially those with cardiovascular conditions should avoid this supplement due to insufficient safety data or potential adverse effects.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8000574/ – This study, published in 2021, investigated the effects of forskolin on glucose metabolism and fat cell diameter in mice fed a high-fat diet. It found that forskolin improved glucose metabolism and reduced fat cell size, suggesting a potential role in metabolic health, but emphasized the need for more human trials to confirm these findings.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02143349 – This entry describes a clinical trial (NCT02143349) designed to evaluate the effects of Coleus forskohlii extract on appetite suppression, central obesity, and metabolic risk factors in overweight or obese individuals. The study was designed as a placebo-controlled trial, but the results are not publicly available, limiting conclusions on its efficacy.
https://www.drugs.com/npp/forskolin.html – This source provides an overview of forskolin, including its uses, potential side effects, and contraindications. It notes potential cardiovascular effects like tachycardia and arrhythmias with forskolin derivatives and advises against use in polycystic kidney disease and during pregnancy/lactation due to limited safety data.