Penn Herb Wellness Guide

ColeusFind Products

Also indexed as:Coleus forskohlii, Forskolin
Coleus: Main Image© Martin Wall
Botanical names:
Coleus forskohlii

Parts Used & Where Grown

This attractive, perennial member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family originated in the lower elevations of India. It is now grown around the world as an ornamental plant. The root is used medicinally.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Glaucoma
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
Studies have shown that intraocular pressure may be lowered by directly applying a sterile fluid extract of forskolin, a constituent of the Ayurvedic herb Coleus forskohlii.
Obesity
250 mg of standardized extract twice daily2 stars[2 stars]
Clinical trials suggest coleus may help regulate body weight and improve metabolic health.
Asthma
50 to 100 mg of an extract standardized to 18% forskolin, taken two to three times per day1 star[1 star]
One trial found that a constituent of coleus, called forskolin, when inhaled, could decrease lung spasms in asthmatics.
Cardiomyopathy
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Coleus contains forskolin, a substance that may help dilate blood vessels and improve the forcefulness with which the heart pumps blood.
Congestive Heart Failure
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Coleus contains forskolin, a substance that may help dilate blood vessels and improve the forcefulness with which the heart pumps blood.
Hypertension
100 to 300 mg per day of Coleus extract with 10–20% forskohlin1 star[1 star]
A small amount of preliminary evidence suggests Coleus forskohlii and its active ingredient forskohlin may have blood pressure-lowering effects.
Psoriasis
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Some herbalists use the herb coleus in treating people with psoriasis.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

As recorded in ancient Sanskrit texts, coleus was used in Ayurvedic medicine1 to treat heart and lung diseases, intestinal spasms, insomnia, and convulsions.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.