Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii)

Also known as: Coleus forskohlii extract · Plectranthus barbatus

●○○Limited Evidence

A diterpene from Coleus forskohlii that directly activates adenylate cyclase, raising cAMP levels — mimicking the downstream effect of adrenergic stimulation on lipolysis and testosterone production.

Effective Dose

25–60mg forskolin (250–500mg 10% extract) / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Limited

Weight Management

Mechanism

Adenylate cyclase activation → cAMP elevation → lipolysis and testosterone

primary action

Best For

Fat loss

Testosterone support, Lean mass

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii)?

Forskolin is the primary active compound in Coleus forskohlii, an Ayurvedic plant. It directly activates adenylate cyclase — bypassing receptor-level control — to increase intracellular cAMP, which drives lipolysis and steroidogenesis. Two small human studies show modest but real effects on body composition.

How It Works: The Science

Cyclic AMP (cAMP) activates PKA, which phosphorylates hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) to mobilise stored triglycerides and activates StAR protein in Leydig cells to drive testosterone synthesis. Forskolin's direct adenylate cyclase activation produces these effects independently of adrenergic receptor stimulation.

Primary Mechanism

Adenylate cyclase activation → cAMP elevation → lipolysis and testosterone

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces body fat and increases testosterone in overweight men

limited

Godard et al. (2005) — 250mg 10% extract twice daily for 12 weeks: significant fat reduction and T increase

Preserves lean mass during caloric deficit

limited

Godard et al. (2005) — lean mass preservation vs control group

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

25–60mg forskolin (250–500mg 10% extract) / day

250mg of 10% standardised extract (25mg forskolin) twice daily. Evidence is limited to two small studies — treat as exploratory.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Lowers blood pressure — avoid with antihypertensives. Increases stomach acid — avoid in peptic ulcers. Potential interaction with anticoagulants.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Fat lossTestosterone supportLean mass

Who it's for

Men in a fat loss phase who want to explore a testosterone-supporting, cAMP-mediated ergogenic. Evidence is limited — use with calibrated expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii)?

250mg of 10% standardised extract (25mg forskolin) twice daily. Evidence is limited to two small studies — treat as exploratory.

Is Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii) safe?

Lowers blood pressure — avoid with antihypertensives. Increases stomach acid — avoid in peptic ulcers. Potential interaction with anticoagulants.

How does Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii) work?

Who should take Forskolin (Coleus Forskohlii)?

Men in a fat loss phase who want to explore a testosterone-supporting, cAMP-mediated ergogenic. Evidence is limited — use with calibrated expectations.

Related Ingredients

Synephrine (Bitter Orange Extract)Yohimbine HCl D-Aspartic Acid (DAA)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →