11 Best Benefits Of Coleus Forskohlii
Coleus forskohlii is a tropical plant native to parts of India and Thailand, known for its medicinal properties and ability to stimulate the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP), a secondary messenger molecule.
The bioactive compound responsible for these benefits is forskolin, a diterpenoid lactone that is extracted from the plant's roots.
The benefits of Coleus forskohlii include its ability to heal inflammation, improve thyroid function by stimulating the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and increasing the heart's contractility.
By increasing cAMP levels, forskolin has been shown to have a range of therapeutic effects, making Coleus forskohlii a valuable plant for treating various health conditions.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Coleus forskohlii.
Table of Contents
1. Heals inflammation
Coleus forskohlii heals inflammation, which refers to the body's natural response to injury or damage, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and heat, as a result of the release of chemical mediators such as histamine and prostaglandins.
This benefit is crucial because chronic inflammation can lead to various diseases and conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which are characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the joints, as well as increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The plant's anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to the presence of bioactive constituents, including forskolin, a labdane diterpenoid that has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Coleus forskohlii, it is best to use herbal preparations such as capsules or tinctures that contain a standardized extract of forskolin, which can be taken orally to alleviate symptoms of inflammation and promote overall well-being.
Top Preparations:
- Forskolin capsules ()
- Forskohlii tincture ()
- Forskohlii extract ()
- Forskolin oil ()
- Forskohlii powder ()
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Heals inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Arthritis, muscle spasms, rheumatism |
| Coleonol | Asthma, bronchitis, inflammatory bowel disease |
| Forskohlii acid | Gout, lupus, multiple sclerosis |
2. Improves thyroid function
Coleus forskohlii improves thyroid function by enhancing the production of thyroid hormones, specifically triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.
This benefit is crucial as it can help alleviate symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance, and even support weight loss and improved overall health.
The coleus forskohlii plant contains bioactive constituents like forskolin, which is a labdane diterpenoid responsible for its medicinal properties, including its ability to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones.
To harness the thyroid-boosting properties of coleus forskohlii, it is best to use herbal preparations such as capsules or tablets that contain standardized extracts of the plant, with a recommended dosage of 50-100 mg of forskolin per day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Tincture
- Forskohlii root extract
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves thyroid function.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Hypothyroidism, goiter, thyroid nodules |
| Forskohlii acid | Thyroiditis, hashimoto's disease, thyroid cancer |
| Forskohlii extract | Thyroid hormone deficiency, thyroid gland enlargement, thyroiditis |
3. Improves heart health
Coleus forskohlii improves heart health by enhancing cardiovascular function and reducing the risk of heart disease, which is crucial for preventing conditions such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and cardiac arrhythmias.
This benefit is especially important for individuals who are at risk of heart disease, including those with a family history of heart conditions, smokers, and those with a sedentary lifestyle.
The plant's ability to improve heart health is attributed to its bioactive constituents, particularly forskolin, which has been shown to relax blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiac output.
To utilize the heart-healthy benefits of Coleus forskohlii, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal supplements or tea, which can be easily incorporated into one's daily routine, either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other cardiovascular medications under medical supervision.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin tincture
- Capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves heart health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac hypertrophy |
| Coleonol | Cardiac fibrosis, cardiac ischemia, cardiac edema |
| Forskohlii acid | Cardiac failure, cardiac arrest, cardiac tachycardia |
4. Reduces risk of cancer
Coleus forskohlii reduces risk of cancer by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, thereby preventing the development and progression of various types of cancer.
This benefit is crucial as cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and reducing the risk of cancer can save countless lives, prevent unnecessary suffering, and alleviate the economic burden on individuals and society.
The plant's ability to reduce the risk of cancer is attributed to its bioactive constituents, particularly forskolin, which has been shown to activate the enzyme adenylate cyclase, leading to increased levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and subsequent inhibition of cancer cell growth.
To harness the anti-cancer benefits of Coleus forskohlii, it is best used in herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or extracts, which can be taken orally under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Forskohlii tincture
- Forskohlii root extract
- Supplements
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces risk of cancer.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Leukemia, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer |
| Coleonol | Skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer |
| Forskohlii acid | Pancreatic cancer, brain cancer, bladder cancer |
5. Reduces blood pressure
Coleus forskohlii reduces blood pressure by decreasing the force of the heart's contractions and dilating blood vessels, resulting in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.
This benefit is crucial as high blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease, which can lead to disability and even death if left unmanaged.
Coleus forskohlii contains bioactive constituents like forskolin, which is responsible for its blood pressure-reducing properties, as it inhibits the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP), a molecule that increases heart rate and contraction force.
To reap the blood pressure-reducing benefits of Coleus forskohlii, it is recommended to consume standardized herbal supplements containing 10-20% forskolin extract, typically in capsule or tablet form, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Tincture
- Forskohlii oil
- Forskolin powder
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Hypertension, cardiac arrest, angina pectoris |
| Coleonol | Hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular disease |
| Forskohlii | Hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular disease |
6. Lowers cholesterol levels
Coleus forskohlii lowers cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol in the bloodstream, which is a measure of the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This benefit is particularly important as high cholesterol levels can lead to conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease, and can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The coleus forskohlii plant contains bioactive constituents such as forskolin, a diterpene compound that has been shown to inhibit the activity of key enzymes involved in the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
To use coleus forskohlii to lower cholesterol levels, it is recommended to take herbal preparations such as capsules or tablets containing 10-50% forskolin extract, ideally in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers cholesterol levels.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Hypcholsterolemia, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease |
| Coleonol | Atherosclerosis, xanthoma, lipidemia |
| Forskohlii acid | Hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, elevated ldl |
7. Enhances fat loss
Coleus forskohlii enhances fat loss, which refers to the reduction of body fat and weight, particularly in the abdominal area, leading to improved overall health and appearance.
This benefit is important as excessive body fat can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer, and can also affect self-confidence and mental well-being.
The Coleus forskohlii plant has this benefit due to its high content of bioactive constituents, including forskolin, a labdane diterpenoid compound that activates an enzyme called adenylate cyclase, leading to increased lipolysis and fat breakdown.
To utilize this plant best for enhancing fat loss, it is recommended to consume Coleus forskohlii in the form of high-quality herbal supplements, such as capsules or tablets, that contain standardized extracts of forskolin, ideally in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Top Preparations:
- Root extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Forskohlii root powder
- Forskohlii extract
- Forskolin supplement
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Enhances fat loss.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Obesity, weight gain, lipodystrophy |
| Coleonol | Insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, hyperlipidemia |
| Coleonidine | Edema, water retention, hypotension |
| Isobutyryl forskolin | Hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, osteoporosis |
8. Reduces blood sugar levels
Coleus forskohlii reduces blood sugar levels by lowering the body's glucose production and increasing its sensitivity to insulin, thereby helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, as it can help prevent complications such as kidney damage, blindness, and nerve damage, which are often associated with high blood sugar levels.
The bioactive constituents responsible for this benefit include forskolin, a diterpenoid compound that has been shown to activate the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, leading to an increase in cyclic AMP and a subsequent decrease in glucose production.
To use Coleus forskohlii for its blood sugar-lowering benefits, it is best to consume it in the form of a standardized herbal extract or capsule, which can provide a consistent and bioavailable dose of forskolin.
Top Preparations:
- Forskolin extract
- Tincture
- Forskohlii root powder
- Forskolin capsules
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces blood sugar levels.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Diabetes, hypoglycemia, insulin resistance |
| Forskohlii acid | Polycystic ovary syndrome, gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes |
| 7-deoxyloganetic acid | Pancreatitis, glucose intolerance, adipose tissue reduction |
9. Reduces anxiety and depression
Coleus forskohlii reduces anxiety and depression by potentially lowering cortisol levels, enhancing mood stability, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals.
This benefit is particularly important as anxiety and depression can significantly impair daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being, leading to issues such as decreased productivity, strained relationships, and poor physical health.
The plant's ability to reduce anxiety and depression can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including forskolin, which has been shown to have a positive effect on mood regulation and stress response by inhibiting the activity of stress hormones like cortisol.
To harness this benefit, coleus forskohlii can be used in herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or teas, typically standardized to contain a specific percentage of forskolin, which should be consumed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Root extract
- Forskolin
- Forslean
- Extract
- Forskolin powder
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces anxiety and depression.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (ptsd) |
| Forskohlii acid | Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (ocd) |
| Coleonol | Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorder (gad) |
| Forskohlii saponins | Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder |
10. Reduces muscle spasms
Coleus forskohlii reduces muscle spasms by inhibiting the contraction of muscle fibers, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing involuntary or uncontrolled muscle movements.
This benefit is particularly important for people who suffer from muscle spasms due to conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, or exercise-induced muscle strain, as it can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.
The plant achieves this benefit due to the presence of forskolin, a bioactive constituent that activates the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, leading to increased levels of cyclic AMP and subsequent relaxation of muscle tissue.
To reap the benefits of Coleus forskohlii in reducing muscle spasms, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal supplements, capsules, or tinctures that contain standardized extracts of the plant's leaves.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Forskolin tincture
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces muscle spasms.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Muscle cramps, tetanus, multiple sclerosis |
| Coleonol | Muscle spasms, asthenopia, neuralgia |
| Coleonol | Muscle cramps, myalgia, rhabdomyolysis |
11. Reduces menstrual cramps
Coleus forskohlii reduces menstrual cramps, which are severe abdominal pains that occur in some women during their menstrual periods.
This benefit is important because menstrual cramps can significantly affect a woman's quality of life, causing her to miss work or school, and interfering with her daily activities, such as exercise and socializing.
The plant's ability to reduce menstrual cramps is attributed to its bioactive constituents, particularly forskolin, which is a diterpenoid compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
To get this benefit, it is best to use Coleus forskohlii in herbal preparations such as capsules or tinctures, which can be taken orally to help alleviate menstrual cramps and promote overall reproductive health.
Top Preparations:
- Root extract
- Forskolin capsules
- Forskohlii tincture
- Forskohlii supplement
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Coleus forskohlii and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces menstrual cramps.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Forskolin | Dysmenorrhea, primary dysmenorrhea, menstrual pain |
| Forskohlii acid | Secondary dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome |
| Coleonol | Menstrual abdominal pain, menstrual abnormalities, menstrual disorders |