Forskolin (Coleus)
Coleus forskohlii
毛喉鞘蕊花
Pinyin: Máo Hóu Qiào Ruǐ Huā
Plant Family
Lamiaceae
Part Used
Root
Origin
India, Nepal, Thailand (Ayurvedic herb)
Safety Level
Caution
Overview
Forskolin is a compound extracted from the root of the Coleus forskohlii plant, a member of the mint family native to India. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Forskolin gained popularity as a weight loss supplement after being featured on the Dr. Oz show. Its primary mechanism is activating the enzyme adenylate cyclase, which increases cAMP levels.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
warm
Flavors (五味)
bitter, acrid / pungent
Meridians (归经)
heart, lung, digestive
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Heart conditions (heart failure, hypertension)
- Respiratory disorders (asthma, bronchitis)
- Digestive disorders and colic
- Pain and inflammation
- Insomnia and convulsions
- Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema - topical)
- Glaucoma (eye drops)
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Used as capsules, tablets, and topical cream. Standardized to 10-20% forskolin. Forskolin eye drops are used for glaucoma. For weight loss, typically taken 2-3 times daily before meals.
Suggested Dosage
Standardized extract (10-20% forskolin): 125-500mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Most common dose: 250mg of 10% forskolin extract twice daily (50mg total forskolin per day).
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Autumn, from mature plants. Roots are dug, cleaned, dried, and extracted.
Quality Indicators
Standardized extract should contain 10-20% forskolin. Look for third-party testing. Indian (Ayurvedic) sources are traditional. Avoid products with fillers or low forskolin content.
Storage
Store capsules/extract in cool, dry place. Shelf life: 2-3 years.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Pregnancy and breastfeedingLow blood pressure (hypotension)Heart disease (consult cardiologist first - vasodilating effect)Bleeding disordersUpcoming surgery (discontinue 2 weeks before)Diabetes (may affect blood sugar)Asthma (may interact with asthma medications)Peptic ulcers
Possible Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated short-term
- Low blood pressure (dizziness, lightheadedness)
- Headache
- Nausea and digestive upset
- Increased heart rate
- Cough or throat irritation (inhaled form)
- Tingling or flushing
- Restlessness or anxiety (in some people)
Drug Interactions
- Blood pressure medications (may enhance lowering)
- Heart medications (nitrates, calcium channel blockers)
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
- Asthma medications (bronchodilators - additive effect)
- Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)
- Antihypertensives
- Theophylline
- Significant interaction potential with heart and blood pressure medications
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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