Coleus forskohlii (Coleus)is a botanical herb that has been used since ancient times in Hindu and Ayurvedic traditional medicine. It is part of the mint family and grows in the subtropical temperate climates of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Coleus and its main active constituent, forskolin, are named after the Finnish botanist and zoologist, Peter Forskal who is credited with its discovery. Historically, it is noted that coleus was prescribed for many different health conditions, including high blood pressure, respiratory disorders, insomnia, colic and eczema.
Coleus is a short plant, growing up to about 2 feet tall. It is identified by its teardrop shaped leaves that are a deep purple colour, outlined by a green border. The deepness of the purple colour of its leaves is determined by how much shade exposure the plant gets. Pale purple/blue flowers cluster off the stems of the coleus plant and its roots are golden brown, thick and fibrous. The roots are harvested in autumn – this is when the forskolin content is at its most concentrated and the colour is at its brightest.
Forskolin was discovered 46 year ago by Western scientists. It is responsible for almost all of the pharmacological activities attributed to the plant. There is emerging evidence however, that other plant constituents like essential oils also play a role in the plant’s overall pharmacological activity and also facilitates the absorption or bioavailability of forskolin in the body.
Coleus has many actions in the body. Forskolin works by increasing levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the body. cAMP is a type of messenger molecule that plays a regulatory role, regulating functions like the release of insulin, the release of histamine, blood vessel vasodilation and thyroid hormone secretion. It also helps regulate the breakdown of fats to be used as body fuel, making coleus a popular herbal ingredient to use in supplements that support healthy body mass.
You can find coleus in our very own Rapid Fat Burner Plus as Forslean®, an award-winning extract of coleus known for its benefits on maintaining healthy body weight, when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.
Please note: Due to its inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation, coleus should not be prescribed alongside blood-thinning drugs and is to be used with caution with other prescription medication. Seek advice from your doctor or other medical professional.
References
Alternative Medicine Review (2006), Monograph: Coleus forskohlii, 11(1): 47-51, cited on 4/6/2020, accessed <http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/11/1/47.pdf>
Thomsen, M. Gennat, H. (2009), Phytotherapy Desk Reference (4th Ed), p. 43, Global Natural Medicine Pty Ltd
