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Plectranthus barbatus

Plectranthus barbatus
Common Name Coleus Forskohlii
Family
Other Names Forskolin
Parts Used: root
Constituents
Coleus Forskohlii Remedies
How to prepare

Coleus Forskohlii Medicinal Properties & Benefits
Coleus forskohii has been used in traditional Ayurevedic medicine for centuries. The active photochemical, forskolin, was discovered in 1974 and has been the subject of many laboratory studies. The compound has a vast array of effects on the body, working primarily on an enzymatic level, raising the level of cyclic AMP (adenosine 3.5 - monophosphate) a substance that activates all sorts of other cellular enzymes. Coleus forskohlii has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure and other benefits include help in losing weight, improving digestion and nutrient absorption, fighting cancer, and immune system support. The whole root contains only a minute amount of forskolin and may not provide a therapeutic response. Look for a product containing 18 percent forskolin, a typical dose is 50 milligrams two or three times a day. A standardized supplement should also contain various helper phytochemicals that improve forskolin's performance and absorption.
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referencesColeus Forskohlii Medicinal Uses
Glaucoma
[700] Coleus improves blood flow inside the brain and eases the intraoclular pressure of glaucoma by stimulating better blood flow inside the eyes.

(Duke, James A, Ph.D. )

Sexual response
[744] Coleus helps in the relaxation of smooth muscles and increases blood flow, both important actions in a healthy sexual response.
Psoriasis,eczema
[745] The enzyme level actions of Coleus help reduce the inflammation of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
Heart function
[746] Higher cell concentrations of AMP improve the hearts ability to contract and relax arteries
[747] Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for promoting a healthy weight, it acts as a digestive aid and increases nutrient absorption.
Asthma and high blood pressure
[655] Forskolin has been shown to increase the concentration of a chemical called cAMP, thus dilating the walls of arteries. This action makes it useful in treating asthma and high blood pressure

(White,Linda B., M.D. )

Fat burner
[743] Studies have shown that forskohlin promotes favorable changes in body composition by increasing lean body mass and decreasing body fat percentages.
Side Effects:
Do not use if you have hypotension, (low blood pressure), because coleus may reduce blood pressure even more. May also stengthen the action of prescription drugs used to treat asthma and high blood pressure.
Plant Description
Coleus forskohlii is grown along mountain slopes in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. This mint-family perenial contains the phytomedicine compound forskolin in it's roots.
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