Health Benefits, Uses and Side Effects of Forskolin!

Forskolin herbal supplements are trends like the controversial weight loss supplements. While research studies show that the impact of this interesting herb on weight loss is limited, this natural plant compound has been used as an herbal remedy for cardiovascular, respiratory and gastrointestinal problems in India for many years.

What is Forskolin?

Forskolin is an herbal supplement made from a compound that is extracted from the root of the Indian Coleus plant (Plectranthus barbatus). This compound is a diterpene and plays a key role in the cyclic AMP cycle in the body, which helps release the energy stored during fasting and exercise.

It was highlighted as a weight loss supplement in the US. After appearing on the Dr. Oz Show, an American program presented by Dr. Mehmet Oz in January 2014. This herb can also help reduce inflammation. Other antioxidant and relaxing properties. Some of the other names for this compound include coleonol, pashanabhedi, coleus forskohlii, colforsin, makandi and maohouqiaoruihua. While Forskolin or   Coleus Forskohlii   have been isolated in traditional medicine and Ayurveda for thousands of years, there is a lack of formal research, particularly with regard to human health. That said, it is generally considered safe to take Forskolin, and shows signs of efficacy in many anecdotal reports. Before you start taking a new supplement or herbal extract, it is always advisable to talk with your doctor, especially if you are currently being prescribed some other medication.

Does Forskolin Help You Lose Weight?

One of the main reasons why people use Forskolin is because it is believed that it can positively affect weight loss in the body. This is due in large part to the active ingredients in Forskolin that can stimulate the lipolysis process, which is the burning of fat, so it makes your workouts more effective. However, studies on the herbal supplement show mixed results. In a clinical study conducted by the University of Kansas, a team of researchers investigated the effect of Forskolin (250 mg of 10% forskolin extract) taken twice daily in 15 obese and overweight men for 12 weeks. The results were compared with 15 men of a similar weight range who received fake pills.

“The Forskolin group lost a significant amount of fat and also saw an increase in their bone mass and testosterone levels, compared to the placebo group”.

The increase in testosterone hormone levels also helps in weight loss. But this was not the case in the results of a randomized study published in the Journal of the International Society for Sports Nutrition. 23 women who were overweight were given Forskolin (250 mg of 10% forskolin extract) twice daily for 12 weeks. And there was no weight loss effect. However, research showed that herbal extract prevents further weight gain. More research is needed on the impact of forskolin on weight loss.

Forskolin vs. Garcinia Cambogia for Weight Loss:

When it comes to weight loss supplements, two of the favorites in recent years have been Forskolin and Garcinia Cambogia. However, there are some clear differences between the two.

  • Forskolin: Forskolin, as mentioned above, is derived from Plectranthus barbatus . It works by increasing lipolysis, which is fat burning.
  • Garcinia Cambogia: Garcinia Cambogia is derived from a citrus fruit, called Malabar tamarind, and is very high in hydroxycitric acid (HCA). It is known that Garcinia cambogia suppresses appetite and helps prevent fat formation.

Both are effective, but the high concentrations of HCA in garcinia cambogia make it a more effective option. However, no herbal supplement is a substitute for proper diet and weight loss exercise.

Other Health Benefits of Forskolin:

While Forskolin is best known for losing weight, other impressive benefits and uses of herbal extract include its effects on glaucoma, cancer, respiratory health, allergies, hormonal levels and blood pressure.

Cancer:

Some of the most interesting research on this supplement refers to cancer, as it is believed that it could be a good complement to cancer therapy. A report from Brown University said that Forskolin could help prevent cancer metastasis by improving the strength of the immune system and the body’s metabolism.

Blood Pressure:

The anecdotal use of this supplement throughout history has included the use for high blood pressure. Due to the relaxing and vasodilatory effects of this supplement, it can reduce the symptoms of hypertension and protect the entire cardiovascular system.

Diabetes:

Although human studies on this subject are minimal at this time, animal testing has shown that glucose levels can be controlled with concentrated levels of forskolin, which is an exciting breakthrough for this common condition.

Glaucoma:

The ability of this supplement to help relieve eye pressure can be excellent news for people suffering from glaucoma, since excess pressure in the eye is what causes the damage.

Allergies:

A reduction in the inflammatory response in the body can also help reduce the severity or frequency of allergic reactions.

Asthma:

One of the most common uses of this extract in traditional medicine is to relieve pressure and inflammation in the respiratory system, which can help those with asthma symptoms.

Hormonal Levels:

When taking this supplement, it is seen that testosterone levels increase, one of the other reasons why this is such a popular accompaniment for training for athletes and bodybuilders. However, consuming an excess can wreak havoc on the hormonal balance of the body.

Where to Buy Forskolin?

You can buy premium pure Forskolin from the health section in supermarkets or in an online store. However, it is important that you talk to your doctor before including this supplement in your diet.

Dosage:

If you are prescribed this supplement, it is also important to understand the proper dose. For weight loss or hormonal balance, most experts recommend two doses of 250 mg of 10% Forskolin supplement. If you are taking a higher percentage supplement, you will need a smaller amount.

Side Effects of Forskolin:

Despite the benefits, there are some serious side effects that should be considered, such as the following:

  • Irregular heart rate
  • Increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Itchy eyes

Again, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking this supplement, as the side effects can be quite serious when taken in excess.