Evidence supporting the use of: Forskolin
For the health condition: Weight Loss

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

Forskolin is a compound derived from the roots of the plant Coleus forskohlii, which has a history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various conditions. Its use for weight loss, however, is primarily based on more recent scientific investigation rather than traditional practice. Forskolin is thought to promote weight loss by increasing cellular levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which can stimulate fat breakdown and inhibit fat synthesis in some biological models.

Despite these theoretical mechanisms, clinical evidence supporting Forskolin’s efficacy for weight loss in humans is weak. A few small randomized controlled trials have been conducted. For example, a 2005 study (Godard et al., Obesity Research) found that Forskolin supplementation in overweight and obese men resulted in a significant decrease in body fat percentage, but no significant change in overall body weight. Another study in women (Henderson et al., 2005) found no significant effect on weight loss. The sample sizes of these studies were small, and study methodologies have been criticized for limitations such as short duration and lack of dietary control.

Overall, while Forskolin shows some potential mechanisms for weight loss in laboratory settings, high-quality clinical evidence is lacking. Most authoritative reviews and systematic analyses conclude there is insufficient evidence to recommend Forskolin for weight loss. Reported side effects are generally mild, but its safety profile is not well established.

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Other health conditions supported by forskolin

Body Building
Circulation (poor)
Fat Metabolism (poor)
Weight Loss

Products containing forskolin

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.