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Forskolin - Coleus Forskohlii

Coleus forskohlii has been traditionally used to treat high
blood pressure. Other benefits include help in losing weight,
improving digestion and nutrient absorption, fighting cancer,
and immune system support. The active photochemical in Coleus  forskohlii, forskolin, was discovered in 1974 and has been the subject of many laboratory studies. The compound has a vast array of effects on the body, working primarily on an enzymatic level, raising the level of cyclic AMP (adenosine 3.5 - monophosphate) a substance that activates all sorts of other cellular enzymes.

Forskolin (7 beta-acetoxy-8, 13-epoxy-1 alpha,6 beta,
9 alpha-trihydroxy-labd-14-ene-11-one) is the main active
ingredient in the Ayurvedic herb Coleus forskohlii. Coleus
is a member of the mint family and grows in subtropical areas
in India, Burma, and Thialand. Forskolin has been extensively researched in the medical field for use in the treatment of allergies, respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, glaucoma, psoriasis, hypothyroidism and weight loss. Forskolin increases Cyclic AMP and appears to have additional actions that are due to its ability to alter a number of membrane transport proteins.

Effects of Coleus on Cyclic AMP

Increased cellular cyclic AMP results in inhibition of platelet activation, decreased likelihood of blood clots, reduced release of histamine, decreased allergy symptoms, increased force of contraction of the heart, relaxation of the arteries and other smooth muscles, increased thyroid function, increased fat
metabolism, increased energy and possibly weight loss. Cyclic AMP and the chemicals it activates comprise a second messenger system that is responsible for carrying out the complex and powerful effects of hormones in the body.In addition, asthma, eczema, psoriasis, angina, obesity and
hypertension are believed to be associated with decreased Cyclic AMP.

Coleus with Asthma and Allergies
Coleus is an effective smooth muscle relaxer, resulting in
bronchodilation, decreased airway resistance, increased vital capacity and increased forced expiratory volume. This action is the result of the increase in Cyclic AMP caused by coleus. Many asthma medications increase Cyclic AMP by inhibiting the enzymes that cause its breakdown. Thus, coleus and the traditional asthma drugs are likely to act synergistically.
Therefore, one should consult their physician before combining them.

Coleus and Weight Loss

In vitro (studies done in the lab) studies show that coleus stimulates fat metabolism. Researchers have found that many obese people have lower than normal Cyclic AMP production. Because of these considerations, coleus may, theoretically, be a weight loss agent, especially for those with reduced Cyclic AMP production. In a recent study, six overweight women took 25 mg of coleus (250 mg capsules of 10% standardized forskolin extract) twice daily for eight weeks. At the end of the eight-week trial, the participants lost a mean of ten pounds, and reduced their percentage of body fat by nearly 8%. Blood pressure
levels also trended lower during the trial.