Coleus

botanicalforskolin

What is it

Coleus, typically referring to Coleus forskohlii (also classified as Plectranthus barbatus), is a perennial plant native to India and East Africa. Its root is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, and standardized extracts containing the diterpene forskolin are marketed for weight management, cardiovascular support, and respiratory health.

How it works

The primary active constituent of Coleus is forskolin, which directly activates the enzyme adenylyl cyclase. This raises intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP), amplifying the effects of many hormones, including those that promote lipolysis (fat breakdown), heart muscle contraction, and bronchial dilation. Oral Coleus forskohlii extract is the standard supplement format, typically standardized to 10% forskolin. Because oral forskolin is poorly absorbed, clinical effects from supplementation are usually more modest than the dramatic cellular effects seen in laboratory studies. Other constituents of Coleus root may contribute to its actions, but forskolin is by far the most studied.

Evidence for 4 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Asthma / bronchodilation

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Older studies of inhaled forskolin have demonstrated bronchodilator effects in asthma, but oral Coleus does not reliably reproduce these effects. Inhaled or topical preparations are not the typical supplement form.

Body composition / weight management

Grade D

Mixed evidence

Small randomized trials of Coleus forskohlii in overweight adults have shown small reductions in body fat percentage and improvements in lean mass, but most trials have not demonstrated meaningful weight loss compared with placebo.

Cardiovascular function

Grade D

Mixed evidence

While IV forskolin has been shown to improve cardiac output and lower blood pressure, oral Coleus supplements have limited and inconsistent effects on cardiovascular outcomes.

Traditional Ayurvedic uses

Grade F

Limited evidence

Coleus is traditionally used in Ayurveda for digestive complaints, respiratory issues, and as a general tonic. Most of these uses lack rigorous clinical evidence in modern studies.

4 commercial forms

Coleus forskohlii root extract (10% forskolin)

Low oral bioavailability of forskolin

The most commonly studied supplement, derived from root of the plant.

High-potency extracts (20-40% forskolin)

Same low bioavailability

Higher-percentage extracts in smaller capsules. No clear clinical advantage over standard standardization.

Coleus root powder (unstandardized)

Variable forskolin content

Used in some traditional formulations. Forskolin content varies widely.

Liquid extract

Variable

Less common; potency depends on extraction method.

Dosage

Studies in adults have used 250 mg of Coleus forskohlii extract standardized to 10% forskolin (providing 25 mg forskolin) twice daily. Higher-percentage extracts may use proportionally smaller doses. There is no formal recommended intake.

When and how to take it

Most studies have used twice-daily dosing with meals to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset. Monitor blood pressure if combined with other antihypertensive agents. Avoid taking near bedtime if you notice changes in heart rate.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at supplement doses. Possible side effects include lowered blood pressure, increased heart rate, headache, and gastrointestinal upset. Forskolin can increase stomach acid secretion, potentially worsening ulcer or reflux symptoms. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. People with low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, gastric ulcers, polycystic kidney disease, or those preparing for surgery should avoid Coleus. Discontinue at least two weeks before scheduled procedures. Consult a clinician if on blood pressure or anticoagulant medications.

Interactions

Coleus extracts may amplify the effects of antihypertensive drugs, anticoagulants and antiplatelets (potentially increasing bleeding risk), and nitrates. It may interact with antiarrhythmics, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Caution is warranted with asthma medications and other cAMP-affecting drugs.

Frequently asked questions

Is Coleus the same as forskolin?⌄

Coleus is the plant; forskolin is its main active compound. Most supplements use Coleus forskohlii root extracts standardized to a specified forskolin percentage.

Will Coleus help me lose weight?⌄

Evidence is weak. Small body-composition effects have been reported, but meaningful weight loss versus placebo has not been consistently shown.

Can I take Coleus with blood pressure medication?⌄

It may amplify blood-pressure-lowering effects. Discuss with your clinician before combining.

Is the Coleus in supplements the same as the houseplant?⌄

No. The medicinal species (Coleus forskohlii / Plectranthus barbatus) is different from the ornamental Coleus often kept as a houseplant. Ornamental species are not used medicinally.

How long should I take Coleus to see results?⌄

Most clinical studies have run for 8-12 weeks. If you don't notice changes in this timeframe, additional supplementation is unlikely to help.

References

  • Coleus barbatus (Wikidata) — Wikidata link
  • Forskolin (ChEBI 42471) — ChEBI link

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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.