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What Is Coleus forskohlii Used for Today?
The scientific evidence for the herb Coleus forskohliias a treatment for any disease is weak. What is known relates to the substance forskolin rather than the whole herb.
Two preliminary controlled studies have found that oral forskolin may be beneficial for treatment of asthma . 1 Forskolin may work by stabilizing the cells that release histamine and other inflammatory compounds. 2 , as well as by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. 3 Based on these apparent effects, Coleus forskohliihas been suggested as a useful treatment for eczema and other allergic conditions, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), angina , irritable bowel syndrome (spastic colon), crampy bladder pain (as in bladder infections ), and hypertension (high blood pressure). However, there is no direct evidence that it works.
One small double-blind study indicates that a concentrated forskolin extract might increase the rate of "fat burning," thereby potentially enhancing weight loss . 4 In addition, forskolin eyedrops have shown promise in improving glaucoma . 5
Coleus forskohliihas also been proposed as a treatment for psoriasis , because that disease appears to be at least partly related to low levels of cyclic AMP in skin cells.
References
- Bauer K, Dietersdorfer F, Sertl K, Kaik B, Kaik G. Pharmacodynamic effects of inhaled dry powder formulations of fenoterol and colforsin in asthma. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 53(1):76-83.
- Marone G, Columbo M, Triggiani S, et al. Forskolin inhibits the release of histamine from human basophils and mast cells. Agents Actions. 1986;18:96-99.
- Ammon HPT, Muller AB. Forskolin: from an Ayurvedic remedy to a modern agent. Planta Med. 1985:473-477.
- Godard MP, Johnson BA, Richmond SR. Body composition and hormonal adaptations associated with forskolin consumption in overweight and obese men. Obes Res. 13(8):1335-43.
- Meyer BH, Stulting AA, Müller FO, Luus HG, Badian M. The effects of forskolin eye drops on intra-ocular pressure. S Afr Med J. 71(9):570-1.
