Forskolin

Forskolin Benefits

There are quite a few recognized benefits of supplementing daily nutrition with Forskolin extract.

• Weight Loss: The most widely noted one is its ability to help a person lose weight quickly. It does this by speeding up the rate at which fat is metabolized.
• Blood Pressure: Forskolin is also used as a maintenance supplement for those with the potential of developing high blood pressure. Although, it cannot actually lower the blood pressure so it won’t be of any use to those who are seeking a way to bring their numbers down. It can aid in keeping your blood pressure levels in check though if they are already in the healthy range.
• Glaucoma: Forskolin can also be taken in a topical drop form for those suffering from glaucoma. While there have only been limited clinical studies on its effect on glaucoma, the results have been positive thus far. The studies have shown that it is possible to lower intraocular pressure for several hours at a time with a formula that contains 1% Forskolin extract.
• Asthma: Because Forskolin holds smooth muscle relaxant properties it also has the potential to benefit asthmatics. Airway resistance and bronchodilation are caused when the smooth muscles in the lungs begin to constrict, which is why many asthma medications are aimed at relaxing them.

Forskolin has also been shown to be effective at treating mild cases of depression, Psoriasis, Hypothyroidism and other immune system deficiencies. There have also been studies conducted observing its ability to help control certain cardiovascular symptoms, such as hypertension, decreased cerebral blood flow, angina and congestive heart failure.

Forskolin Dosage Information

Most people who are interested in trying out Forskolin are recommended to take it as a supplemental pill form because the actual plant does not yield sufficient quantities. The root of the actual herb only contains approximately 0.3% of Forskalin – a dose this low will not provide the desired results.

 That being said, the typical dosage of Forskolin is around 9mg. The actual supplement will be found under the name Coleus forskohlii extract, which should be around 50mg give or take.  

The amount of times that the extract should be taken throughout the day will vary depending on your individual health needs. Most people will take it a minimum of two times per day, and a max of three pills daily.

For those who seek to control their glaucoma symptoms Forskolin is taken as an eye drop. This treatment is still very new so there is not very much information about it. However, the drops themselves will include a 1% dose of the supplement.

Forskolin Side Effects

Because the full effects of Forskolin have not been studies in depth, it is important to note that you should always consult with your doctor before incorporating it into daily nutrition. Some reported side effects to various forms of forskolin include:

• Cough
• Flushing
• Low Blood Pressure
• Restlessness
• Stinging In Eyes
• Throat Irritation
• Tremor

There has been some evidence that the supplement has contraindications with certain asthma drugs and therapies, so it should be avoided by those already treating their asthma unless their asthma and allergy doctor advises otherwise. This is especially true for those using Albuterol.

Forskolin does not have the ability to lower high blood pressure or cure glaucoma, so it should not be used for anything other than as a maintenance supplement. Studies indicate that it is not safe to take for those individuals taking any kind of anti-clotting medicine – this includes supplements as well.

Forskolin Final Comments

While Forskolin has many potential health benefits, those wishing to use it should proceed with caution. There have not been enough studies to be conclusive about its advantages and possible adverse reactions. However, there are laboratory studies being conducted that are working toward discovering this information.

If you choose to try incorporating Forskolin into your supplement regimen please remember to consult with your doctor beforehand. It is impossible to know if the herb will react negatively to any of the prescription drugs or supplements that you are currently taking. You can use the free supplement finder to compare forskolin, and other online supplement options.