Overview

Coleus forskohlii is an ancient Ayurvedic plant and member of the mint and lavender family, which grows in the mountains of Asia. Recent research has shown that the active ingredient in coleus is forskolin, which plays a major role in a variety of important cellular functions, including inhibiting histamine release, relaxing muscles, increasing thyroid function, and increasing fat-burning activity. Though scientists are only just confirming the many benefits of coleus, there's a definite "buzz" circulating about its potential for aiding in fat loss.

Usage

Amount and Timing: A common dosage range is 50 to 100 mg, 2 or 3 times a day. An extract standardized to 10 to 20% forskolin is preferred.

Fluid extracts of two to four milliliters taken three times per day are used as well.

It's not hard to see why athletes would be attracted to Coleus forskohlii initially: the lure of easy fat burning plus control of muscle cramping all make it an interesting herb. It's certainly gaining popularity in the scientific arena as well as on the street for its potential fat-burning effects. And, if allergies and heart health are a concern, you're in luck: science suggests this herb may help.

Questions and Answers

Q.	What does the research on Coleus forskohli show?
A.	Due to the unique pharmacology of forskolin, Coleus forskohlii may prove to be useful in a wide range of clinical conditions. There are some exciting patents and clinical studies using 10% to 20% forskolin for aiding fat loss, promoting lean body mass, and in the management of mood disorders. Presently, it appears Coleus forskohlii is also suited for relieving asthma, eczema, psoriasis, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and angina.
Q.	Could any other supplements make Coleus forskohli even more effective?
A.	For fat loss, it may prove to be most useful when combined with other thermogenic nutrients.
Q.	What's the most common amount of Coleus forskohli used to achieve optimal results?
A.	Typical dosage recommendations are in the range of 100 to 300 mg per day of a Coleus forskohlii extract (10% to 20% forskolin), taken in 2 to 3 divided doses. (Raw root powders may have only 0.2% to 0.3% forskolin.)
Q.	Can too much Coleus forskohli cause any side effects—is it safe?
A.	Toxicity is unknown, but this herb should be avoided by people taking anticoagulant medications (for "blood thinning") as well as those with low blood pressure or those taking an anti-hypertensive medication (for high blood pressure).
Q.	Can I get the same effects of Coleus forskohli by eating regular whole foods?
A.	Unfortunately, it is extremely rare to find the root used in foods, but it has been known to appear in spices found in Asia. Nonetheless, when used as a spice, you wouldn't get nearly enough of this herb to enjoy its positive effects.

Safety Information

Safety:
There isn't much research on Coleus forskohlii's safety, but so far it hasn't caused any adverse reactions in people.

References

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Badmaev, V., et al., "Diterpene Forskolin (Coleus forskohlii, Benth.): A Possible New Compound for Reduction of Body Weight by Increasing Lean Body Mass," Sabinsa report, January 2000.

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Majeed, M., et al., "Method of Preparing a Forskohlin Composition from Forskohlin Extract and Use of Forskohlin for Promoting Lean Body Mass and Treating Mood Disorders," US Patent No. 5,804,596, Sept. 8, 1998.

MB Research Laboratories and BioReliance Laboratories, "Oral Toxicity in Rats LD50 and AMES Test of 10% Standardized Extract of Coleus forskohlii Roots (ForsLean)," November 2000.

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