Forskolin is an extract from the root of Coleus Forskohlii.  C. Forskholii, is a member of the mint family of plants. Forskolin acts directly on adenylate cyclase, an enzyme that activates the synthesis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the cell. cAMP promotes the breakdown of stored fats in animal and human fat cells. In vitro and animals studies have shown forskolin and its derivative can inhibit cell proliferation, and induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human gastric cancer cells. Forskolin was also found to inhibit melanoma cell-induced platelet aggregation and reduce lung metastasis. Forskolin upregulates the expression of cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) family through the pregnane-X-receptor that regulates the CYP3A genes.

It is used for a variety of conditions, including cancer, obesity, glaucoma, asthma, and heart failure. Small clinical studies suggest that forskolin can benefit obese men in weight management. When applied on the skin of mice, forskolin can stimulate the production of melanin in the absence of ultraviolet light. It has been proposed for use in sunless tanning lotions to reduce the risk of skin cancer by decreasing exposure to sun.