Forskolin

Forskolin is contained in coleus (stinging nettle) and belongs to the group of terpenes. These are very widespread in nature, occur mainly in plants and are components of their essential oils. Together with steroids, terpenes belong to the group of simple lipids. They have antimicrobial effects that were known in almost all cultures. Coleus forskohlii is known in Indian folk medicine as an antihypertensive circulatory agent and against bronchial asthma, glaucoma and heart failure. Forskolin is involved in a number of functions in the body. Among other things, it helps to improve blood circulation and strengthens heart function. In the digestive system, it stimulates the release of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and can relieve intestinal colic. In the immune system, forskolin can activate lymphocytes and macrophages, and it generally promotes energy production in the cells. It is also used to treat asthma, psoriasis and disorders of the sexual system, e.g. dysmenorrhea and male impotence.

Forskolin is also used to treat asthma, bronchitis and other chronic respiratory diseases because it prevents the bronchial tubes from constricting as it has a bronchodilating effect. It promotes the regeneration of damaged nerves and has a possible antidepressant effect. The plant has a laxative and diuretic effect and is used for stomach pain and bloating. Coleus counteracts poor digestion caused by low stomach acidity and a lack of pancreatic enzymes. It has a digestive stimulating effect.

Forskolin is used to treat calcification, poor blood circulation in the heart artery and to strengthen the heart. It has a stimulating effect on the contraction of the heart and thus promotes cardiac function. Generally has a vasodilating effect, also in the brain. Coleus is used both externally and internally in the treatment of psoriasis. It also inhibits blood clotting and can lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion.

The journal Arzneimittel-Forschung (37, 364-367) reports that forskolin has been shown to improve the contractile strength of the heart.

In the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology (16/1), the authors reported a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure when forskolin was used. At the same time, pulmonary arterial pressure decreased and cardiac output increased. Cardiac output and stroke volume index were improved by 70 percent. Physiologically, the energy-improving effect of forskolin is explained by its ability to stimulate adenate cyclase activity and raise the level of cyclic adenosine monophosphatase (cAMP). In plain language: Forskolin acts on substances such as cAMP, which in turn can activate certain enzymes that are necessary for cellular energy.

Studies

Several studies on foscoline-based supplements have demonstrated its positive effect on fat reduction. However, because these tests were funded by Sabina Corporation, which holds the patent for foscoline production, there were doubts about their credibility. Some critics warned of side effects, but these were not found in subsequent toxicity studies. On the contrary, foscoline apparently lowers blood pressure and increases high-density lipoproteins (HDL). In a further, independent test with two comparison groups, it was finally established that foscoline actually reduces fat.

Need in sport

Dr. Badmaev has shown in two studies that Coleus forskohlii can burn body fat and at the same time promote the build-up of muscle mass. However, foscoline differs from ephedrine in that it does not interact with the beta-receptors in fat cells and does not trigger their stimulation. Coleus forskohlii has the unique effect of activating the enzyme cAMP (cyclic AMP). This in turn stimulates enzymes that are directly involved in fat burning and muscle building. During an 8-week study, test subjects with Coleus forskohlii lost an average of 8% body fat and at the same time built up 7% lean muscle mass. This result is simply sensational when you consider that no changes were made to diet, exercise or lifestyle. This means that the ratio between body fat and muscle mass has changed significantly in favor of muscle mass. It was also discovered that Coleus forskohlii is a so-called vasodilator. This means that it dilates the veins and thus enables a stronger pump during training. Coleus forskohlii increases the function of the lungs and heart and also helps with muscle fights and muscle soreness.

The recommendation for taking Coleus forskohlii, standardized to 185 forskolin, is 50 mg (9 mg forskolin) two to three times daily.

Safety and side effects

Forskolin is potentially safe and harmless for most adults when used appropriately. When given by injection, forskolin may cause hot flashes and low blood pressure. When inhaled, forskolin can cause throat irritation, coughing, tremors and restlessness. Eye drops containing forskolin may cause a stinging sensation.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the safety of forskolin during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid forskolin to be on the safe side.

Blood clotting disorders: There is evidence that forskolin may increase the risk of bleeding.

Cardiovascular disease: There are concerns that forskolin may interfere with the treatment of cardiovascular disease and may exacerbate these conditions. Forskolin can significantly lower blood pressure. Forskolin should be used with caution if you suffer from heart problems.

Surgeries: Forskolin could increase bleeding during and after surgery. For this reason, you should stop using Forskolin 2 weeks before an operation.

Interactions

Forskolin should not be used in combination with the following medications:

Medications for high blood pressure (calcium channel blockers)

Forskolin could lower blood pressure. Taking forskolin in combination with medication for high blood pressure could lower blood pressure too much.

Medications that can increase blood flow to the heart (nitrates)

Forskolin increases blood flow. Taking forskolin in combination with drugs that increase blood flow to the heart could increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and lightheadedness.

Care should be taken when combining Forskolin with the following medications:

Medications that slow down blood clotting

Forskolin could slow down blood clotting. Taking forskolin in combination with drugs that also slow down blood clotting could increase the risk of bleeding and the tendency to bruise.

Some medications that can slow blood clotting include aspirin, diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen, naproxen, heparin, warfarin and others.