Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)
Ayurvedic
Also known as: Forskolin, Forskohlii, Plectranthus barbatus, Coleus Forskohlii Extract, Coleus forskohlii root extract
C
Grade C💊 50-100mg forskolin (from 250-500mg 20% extract) 2x daily🎯 7 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upHeart & Longevity+50 pts
Overview
Coleus forskohlii is a traditional Ayurvedic plant whose root extract contains forskolin, a diterpene alkaloid that activates adenylyl cyclase and increases cAMP levels. Research suggests potential effects on body composition, metabolic rate, and cardiovascular function, though clinical evidence remains limited.
Primary Uses
Thyroid stimulationMetabolic supportBody compositionBody composition supportMetabolic rate enhancementCardiovascular healthThyroid function support
Frequently Asked About Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)
How much Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) should I take?
The typical effective range is 50-100mg forskolin (from 250-500mg 20% extract) 2x daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)?
Before meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) with food?
Either way.
Does Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Blood pressure meds (additive), Blood thinners, and Thyroid meds. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin).
What does Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) pair well with?
Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) stacks well with Careful with other stimulating supplements — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)?
Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) should be avoided or used with caution by people with Hyperthyroidism, Low blood pressure, and Heart conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)?
Most people tolerate Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) well. The most commonly reported side effects are Flushing, Rapid heart rate, and Low blood pressure. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
50-100mg forskolin (from 250-500mg 20% extract) 2x daily
Timing
Before meals
With food
Either way
Duration
8-12 weeks
Special Populations
Metabolic support, hypothyroid
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)yet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) research
Mechanism of Action
- • Increases cAMP
- • May stimulate thyroid hormone release
- • Traditional metabolic support
- • Fat metabolism effects
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade C
Some evidence for thyroid and metabolism, more research needed
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • May worsen hyperthyroidism
- • Low blood pressure risk
- • Heart rate effects
Contraindications
- • Hyperthyroidism
- • Low blood pressure
- • Heart conditions
- • Bleeding disorders
Common Side Effects
- • Flushing
- • Rapid heart rate
- • Low blood pressure
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid
Liver & Kidney Notes
Kidney stone concern (theoretical)
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Blood pressure meds (additive)
- • Blood thinners
- • Thyroid meds
🧪 Supplements
- • Often in fat burner formulas
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • Either way
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Careful with other stimulating supplements
Avoid Combining With
Blood pressure meds without monitoring
Best Goal Synergies
Metabolic supportThyroid stimulation
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Standardized forskolin content
- • Third-party tested
Standardization Markers
Forskolin percentage
Adulteration risk
Moderate
Practical Notes
- • Can lower blood pressure
- • Stimulates thyroid hormone release
- • Careful with heart/BP conditions
Tags
thyroidmetabolismayurvediccampbody compositionweight managementcardiovascularcAMP pathwaystandardized extract
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Browse all Ayurvedic ingredients →Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin) — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/coleus-forskohlii
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.