Forskolin

Common names: Forskolin also is known as pashanabhedi, makandi, colforsin, HL-362 , and mao hou qiao rui hua.

Efficacy-safety rating:

●●...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

What is Forskolin?

Coleus forskohlii is a perennial herb in a large genus of mints. The plant is native to subtropical and tropical regions of India and east Africa. A synonym is C. barbatus.

What is Forskolin used for?

This species and other related species were used in Ayurvedic medicine under the name pashanabhedi for heart and lung diseases, intestinal spasms, insomnia, and convulsions. It was studied for cardiovascular activity in 1974 by scientists from Hoechst India and the Central Drug Research Institute of India in screening programs that examined medicinal plants.

Forskolin has been shown to dilate the blood vessels, decreasing blood pressure, increasing the contractility of the heart, and inhibiting platelet aggregation in patients. Because of its multiple sites of action, it should be used with caution. Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of forskolin for antithrombotic effects. Forskolin has shown positive effects in human heart tissues. More clinical studies are needed.

Forskolin has been shown to relax contracted airways in humans. A small human study found that inhaled forskolin powder formulations were capable of causing bronchodilation in asthma patients. Further clinical study is necessary.

What is the dosage of Forskolin?

Typical dosage is 100 to 300 mg/day of an extract containing 10% to 20% forskolin.

Is Forskolin safe?

Avoid use in patients on anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and vasodilators because of additive effects. Avoid use with ulcers because of stimulation of gastric acid, and in diabetes due to stimulation of lipid release and gluconeogenesis.

Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking. Avoid use.

May have additive effects with anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and vasodilators.

Avoid use with ulcers because of stimulation of gastric acid and in diabetes due to stimulation of lipid release and gluconeogenesis.

No data.

References

Copyright © 2006 Wolters Kluwer Health

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