Coleus forskohlii has been traditionally used to treat high
blood pressure. Other benefits include help in losing weight,
improving digestion and nutrient absorption, fighting cancer,
and immune system support. The active photochemical in Coleus
forskohlii, forskolin, was discovered in 1974 and has been the subject
of many laboratory studies. The compound has a vast array of effects
on the body, working primarily on an enzymatic level, raising the level of
cyclic AMP (adenosine 3.5 - monophosphate) a substance that activates
all sorts of other cellular enzymes.
Forskolin (7 beta-acetoxy-8, 13-epoxy-1 alpha,6 beta,
9 alpha-trihydroxy-labd-14-ene-11-one) is the main active
ingredient in the Ayurvedic herb Coleus forskohlii. Coleus
is a member of the mint family and grows in subtropical areas
in India, Burma, and Thialand. Forskolin has been extensively
researched in the medical field for use in the treatment of allergies,
respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, glaucoma, psoriasis,
hypothyroidism and weight loss. Forskolin increases Cyclic AMP and
appears to have additional actions that are due to its ability to alter a
number of membrane transport proteins.
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