Coleus Forskohlii (Valaka (Coleus vettiveroides))
Coleus Forskohlii is a herb traditionally used in Asian medicine. Modern research focuses on its active compound, forskolin, which influences cAMP levels and may offer therapeutic benefits.
Botanical name: Plectranthus barbatus. Also known as: Forskolin, Indian Coleus, Makandi, Patharchur.
Properties
Activation of adenylate cyclase, Increase in cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels, Lipid metabolism modulation, Thermogenesis enhancement
Dosage
Root extract: 10-20 mg of forskolin daily; Whole root powder: 1-3 grams daily.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
Traditional uses
- Shvasa (asthma)
- Kasa (cough)
- Medoroga (obesity)
- Hridroga (heart disease)
- Raktavikara (blood disorders)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Bleeding disorders
Side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)
- Dizziness
- Headache
Interactions
- Antihypertensive medications: May potentiate the blood pressure-lowering effects.
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs: May increase the risk of bleeding.
- Calcium channel blockers: Potential for additive effects on blood pressure.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 3 meta-analyses and databases tracking 10+ RCTs suggest Coleus Forskohlii may aid in weight loss, improve insulin resistance, and offer benefits for asthma and glaucoma. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
Classical clinical indications
- Shvasa (asthma)
- Kasa (cough)
- Medoroga (obesity)
- Hridroga (heart disease)
- Raktavikara (blood disorders)