Refer a Friend

Coleus

Also indexed as: Coleus forskohlii, Makandi
Coleus: Main Image © Martin Wall
Common names:
Makandi
Botanical names:
Coleus forskohlii

Parts Used & Where Grown

This attractive, perennial member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family originated in the lower elevations of India. It is now grown around the world as an ornamental plant. The root is used medicinally.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • This interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Amount Why
Glaucoma
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner 2 stars [2 stars] Studies have shown that intraocular pressure may be lowered by directly applying a sterile fluid extract of forskolin, a constituent of the Ayurvedic herb Coleus forskohlii.
Asthma
50 to 100 mg of an extract standardized to 18% forskolin, taken two to three times per day 1 star [1 star] One trial found that a constituent of coleus, called forskolin, when inhaled, could decrease lung spasms in asthmatics.
Cardiomyopathy
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Coleus contains forskolin, a substance that may help dilate blood vessels and improve the forcefulness with which the heart pumps blood.
Congestive Heart Failure
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Coleus contains forskolin, a substance that may help dilate blood vessels and improve the forcefulness with which the heart pumps blood.
Hypertension
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Forskolin, the active ingredient in Coleus forskohlii, has lowered blood pressure in a trial with people suffering from cardiomyopathy.
Obesity
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Coleus has been recommended by practitioners of herbal medicine for weight loss.
Psoriasis
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Some herbalists use the herb coleus in treating people with psoriasis.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

As recorded in ancient Sanskrit texts, coleus was used in Ayurvedic medicine1 to treat heart and lung diseases, intestinal spasms, insomnia, and convulsions.

Copyright © 2012 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net

Learn more about Aisle7, the company.

Learn more about the authors of Aisle7 products.

The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

1-800-381-0759
Copyright © 2012 Vitacost.com. All rights reserved • Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.
The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by Vitacost.com or the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.
Not responsible for typographical errors or misprints. Product availability, pricing, and promotions are subject to change without notice.
ATL3