Forskolin is an extract from the root of the Indian Coleus plant (Plectranthus barbatus/Coleus forskohlii). Indian Coleus, a member of the mint family, is a perennial herb with fleshy and fibrous roots. It is commonly found in India, Burma and Thailand. The medicinal value of forskolin produced by Indian Coleus was first researched in the early to mid-1980s.
What is Forskolin?
Forskolin is an extract from the root of the Indian Coleus plant (Plectranthus barbatus/Coleus forskohlii). Indian Coleus, a member of the mint family, is a perennial herb with fleshy and fibrous roots. It is commonly found in India, Burma and Thailand. The medicinal value of forskolin produced by Indian Coleus was first researched in the early to mid-1980s.
Forskolin activates adenylate cyclase by direct stimulation of the enzyme and modulating the enzyme activity. This leads to an increase in the intracellular levels of cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate), a second messenger in the signal transduction pathway. cAMP has been associated with several cellular functions. Some of the effects of cAMP include the breakdown of fats, dilatation of blood vessels and airways, inhibition of blood clotting and improvement of heart function. Owing to the results gathered from animal studies forskolin has a number of potential applications, including:
- To lose weight
- As an anti-hypertensive
- In cardiology: for improving cardiac function
- As an inotropic (an agent that modifies the force or energy of muscle contraction)
- Forskolin for treatment of glaucoma: reduces intraocular pressure

- Godard, Michael P., Brad A. Johnson, and Scott R. Richmond. "Body composition and hormonal adaptations associated with forskolin consumption in overweight and obese men." Obesity research 13.8 (2005): 1335-1343.
- D'orazio, John A., et al. "Topical drug rescue strategy and skin protection based on the role of Mc1r in UV-induced tanning." Nature 443.7109 (2006): 340.