Coleus forskohlii (Plectranthus barbatus) is a tropical plant in the mint family that has been used around the world for a variety of reasons, the most common being for cardiovascular ailments. More currently, this herb has been touted by Dr. Oz on his self-titled TV show as one of his favourite “belly blaster” supplements. This activity is due to the main constituent of Coleus forskohlii, known as forskolin, with its highest concentrations being in the root of the herb.

Forskolin and Cyclic AMP

The major action of forskolin is to rapidly activate a cellular enzyme called adenylyl cyclase. This enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which is a messenger molecule in our cells that helps to control their response to signals from the body. Some of these signals involve the regulation of glycogen, sugar, and lipid (fat) metabolism in the cell. Thus, through increasing the cellular production of cAMP, forskolin can help to boost the amount of fat and sugar used by the cells of the body. In a test tube, the application of forskolin has been shown to directly reduce the size of fat cells. This is promising for the ability of forskolin to help increase metabolism.

Key Health Benefits of Coleus Forskohlii

Weight Loss & Bone Health in Men

When tested in a group of overweight and obese men, supplementation of forskolin over a 12-week period was found to favourably alter their body composition. It reduced body fat percentages, and actually helped to improve bone mass. These results may be limited to men, but may be particularly useful in overweight men suffering from bone loss due to andropause.

Benefits For Asthma

One preliminary study found that forskolin was equally as effective as beclomethasone for the prevention of asthma attacks after two months of treatment in mild and moderate asthma sufferers. Further research is needed to be sure of the results, but daily supplementation with low dose forskolin may help to prevent some asthma attacks.

Shopping For & Taking Coleus Forskohlii Supplements

Coleus forskohlii can be found in tablets or in combination weight loss formulas. Research has established the dose in overweight men as 250mg of extract standardized to 10% forskolin, supplemented for at least 12 weeks. Dr. Oz recommends 125mg of extract standardized to 20% forskolin taken in the morning. Asthma research examined a dose of only 10mg daily.