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)
Frequently asked questions
What is Coleus Forskohlii?
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.
What are the benefits of Coleus Forskohlii?
Deepana (appetizer). Pachana (digestive). Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
How is Coleus Forskohlii used in Ayurveda?
Shvasa (asthma)