Coleus Forskohlii: Complete Medicinal Profile
Coleus forskohlii is a tropical plant native to India and Southeast Asia, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and known for its unique leaf structure and medicinal properties.
The plant contains a compound called forskolin, which has been found to have various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
The health benefits of Coleus forskohlii include potential weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, and increased bone density, as well as its ability to lower blood pressure and improve respiratory function.
Coleus forskohlii is traditionally used in herbal preparations, such as capsules, tablets, and teas, often in combination with other herbs to enhance its medicinal effects.
Study of the Day
According to the study, Coleus forskohlii is considered to have medicinal properties and can be used to treat various diseases, including asthma and cancer.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Coleus forskohlii.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Coleus forskohlii is used to treat a variety of health issues due to its numerous benefits.
This plant has been found to aid in weight loss, improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and even help manage type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity.
Additionally, it has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve bone density, which can be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis.
The health benefits of coleus forskohlii also include improved exercise performance, enhanced cognitive function, and a reduced risk of certain cancers, such as colon and breast cancer.
The health benefits of Coleus forskohlii are listed below.
- 1. weight loss: Coleus forskohlii has been shown to aid in weight loss by increasing the breakdown of fat cells and enhancing metabolism.
- 2. improved insulin sensitivity: The plant is known to increase insulin sensitivity, which can help in managing blood sugar levels and preventing conditions like diabetes.
- 3. reduced blood pressure: Coleus forskohlii has been found to have a positive effect on blood pressure, helping to reduce hypertension and its associated risks.
- 4. improved bone density: The plant is believed to increase bone density, which can help in preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures.
- 5. anti-inflammatory properties: Coleus forskohlii has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
- 6. improved cognitive function: The plant is thought to have a positive effect on cognitive function, including improved memory and concentration.
- 7. enhanced athletic performance: Coleus forskohlii may help in improving athletic performance by increasing endurance and reducing fatigue.
Here are the best health benefits of Coleus forskohlii.
Actions
Coleus forskohlii has been found to exhibit a variety of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protective effects.
These actions have been observed to impact the cardiovascular system, with potential benefits to heart health and blood pressure regulation.
Additionally, Coleus forskohlii has shown nervine, adaptogenic, and hepatoprotective properties, which may influence the nervous, endocrine, and digestive systems, as well as the liver.
Furthermore, its thermogenic and lipolytic actions may also affect the metabolic and weight management systems.
The therapeutic actions of Coleus forskohlii are listed below.
- Antiseptic: Prevents or destroys microorganisms, reducing the risk of infection.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and swelling, often associated with pain relief.
- Antioxidant: Protects against oxidative stress and cell damage, promoting overall health.
- Cardiotonic: Supports heart health, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure.
- Cyclooxygenase inhibitor: Blocks the production of prostaglandins, reducing inflammation and pain.
- Hormone regulator: Helps regulate hormone levels, particularly thyroid hormones.
- Neuroprotective: Protects and supports the health of neurons, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Constituents
Coleus forskohlii has been found to contain a rich array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The plant's tannins and phenolic acids, such as ferulic and sinapic acid, also exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Furthermore, the presence of coumarins like scopoletin and umbelliferone in Coleus forskohlii contributes to its ability to modulate cellular processes and exhibit antiproliferative effects.
Additionally, the plant contains essential oils, including geraniol and linalool, which possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The bioactive constituents of Coleus forskohlii are listed below.
- Forskolin: A labdane diterpenoid that has been shown to have various pharmacological effects, including the activation of adenylyl cyclase and the increase of camp levels.
- Forskohlioside: A compound that is closely related to forskolin and has been shown to have similar effects.
- Sitosterol: A type of plant sterol that has been shown to have various health benefits, including the reduction of cholesterol levels.
- Fatty acids: A group of compounds that are essential for various cellular processes and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Flavonoids: A group of compounds that have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Triterpenoids: A group of compounds that have been shown to have various pharmacological effects, including the inhibition of inflammation and the improvement of cardiovascular health.
- Saponins: A group of compounds that have been shown to have various pharmacological effects, including the inhibition of inflammation and the improvement of cardiovascular health.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Coleus forskohlii are the roots and leaves, which are prized for their medicinal and health benefits.
The roots of Coleus forskohlii are rich in forskolin, a compound that has been shown to aid in weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce inflammation.
The leaves, on the other hand, are used to treat a range of ailments, including digestive issues, skin conditions, and respiratory problems, and have also been used to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Additionally, the plant's extracts have been used to improve exercise performance, reduce anxiety and stress, and even help manage symptoms of glaucoma and asthma.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Leaves | Erectile dysfunction, hypothyroidism, asthma |
| Roots | Muscle spasms, allergies, migraines |
| Stems | Gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, high blood pressure |
| Tubers | Cancer, alzheimer's disease, arthritis |
Preparations
Coleus forskohlii most common herbal preparations are infusions, tinctures, capsules, and essential oils.
Infusions are used to aid in weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce inflammation, while tinctures are often used to alleviate anxiety and stress.
Capsules are commonly used to boost metabolism, increase lean body mass, and enhance athletic performance, and essential oils are used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and improve mood.
These preparations can also be used to lower blood pressure, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes and certain cancers.
The herbal preparations of Coleus forskohlii are listed below.
- Coleus forskohlii infusion: A tea made by steeping dried coleus forskohlii leaves in hot water, traditionally used to support weight loss and improve cardiovascular health.
- Forskohlii tincture: A concentrated liquid extract made from coleus forskohlii roots and leaves, often used in herbal medicine to support thyroid function and metabolism.
- Coleus forskohlii capsules: A dietary supplement made from dried and powdered coleus forskohlii leaves, often used to support weight loss and improve body composition.
- Forskohlii extract: A purified extract of the coleus forskohlii plant, often used in pharmaceutical and dietary supplement applications to support cardiovascular health.
- Coleus forskohlii oil: A topical oil extract made from coleus forskohlii leaves, often used to support skin and wound healing.
- Forskohlii decoction: A medicinal tea made by boiling dried coleus forskohlii roots and leaves in water, traditionally used to support digestive health.
- Coleus forskohlii salve: A topical cream or ointment made from coleus forskohlii extract, often used to support skin and wound healing.
Side Effects
Coleus forskohlii side effects are numerous and varied, including stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea, which can be particularly bothersome for individuals with sensitive stomachs or those who are prone to digestive issues.
Additionally, high doses of the plant can cause headaches, dizziness, and tremors, often affecting people who are taking other medications or have pre-existing heart conditions.
Moreover, coleus forskohlii may interact with certain blood thinners and lower blood pressure, posing a risk to individuals with cardiovascular problems or those taking anticoagulant medications.
As a precaution, individuals with these conditions, particularly those with high blood pressure, heart problems, or stomach ulcers, should exercise extreme caution when using coleus forskohlii supplements.
The possible side effects of Coleus forskohlii are listed below.
- Digestive issues: Coleus forskohlii may cause stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea in some individuals due to its high concentration of forskolin.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, including hives, itching, or swelling, after consuming coleus forskohlii.
- Interactions with medications: Forskolin in coleus forskohlii may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and reduce their effectiveness.
- Low blood pressure: Coleus forskohlii may lower blood pressure, which can be problematic for individuals with pre-existing hypotension.
- Headaches and dizziness: Forskolin in coleus forskohlii may cause headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness, especially when taken in high doses.
- Insomnia: Coleus forskohlii may cause insomnia or restlessness due to its stimulatory effects on the nervous system.
- Increased heart rate: Forskolin in coleus forskohlii may increase heart rate and cardiac output, which can be problematic for individuals with heart conditions.