Forskolin
The cAMP connection
- Type
- Botanical compound
- Typical amount
- Studies have used extracts standardized to 10% forskolin, providing around 25–50 mg of forskolin per day.
- Best taken
- As directed on the formula label
- Caffeine
- None
- Main source
- It comes from the Coleus forskohlii root, taken as a standardized extract.
- Evidence level
- Moderately studied
Forskolin is a compound from the root of Coleus forskohlii, a plant in the mint family used in Ayurveda.
What is Forskolin?
Forskolin is a compound from the root of Coleus forskohlii, a plant in the mint family used in Ayurveda.
How Forskolin works in the body
It raises levels of cellular cAMP, a messenger involved in fat breakdown, and is studied for body-composition support. In practical terms, this is the mechanism weight-loss formulas are counting on when they include forskolin.
What the research says about Forskolin and weight
Forskolin has a moderate body of research — some human trials plus supporting lab and animal work. The findings are promising but not definitive, and effect sizes are usually modest. Treat it as a reasonable supporting ingredient rather than a proven stand-alone solution.
How much Forskolin to take
Studies have used extracts standardized to 10% forskolin, providing around 25–50 mg of forskolin per day. Always check the label of your specific formula — blends often contain less forskolin than studies use, especially inside proprietary blends that don’t disclose exact amounts.
Food sources and supplement forms
It comes from the Coleus forskohlii root, taken as a standardized extract.
Why Forskolin appears in weight-loss formulas
It is included for its cAMP-raising mechanism and its popularity in fat-loss marketing.
Safety, side effects and interactions
Generally tolerated; it can lower blood pressure and may interact with blood-thinning and blood-pressure medications. As with any supplement, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or managing a health condition, check with your doctor first.
How to choose a quality Forskolin supplement
When choosing a Forskolin product or a formula containing it, look for one that discloses the actual amount of forskolin (not just a proprietary-blend total), uses a recognizable form, and is made by a brand with third-party testing or GMP manufacturing. More isn’t always better — match the dose to what research and the label suggest, and be wary of products that hide quantities behind a blend.
The cAMP connection
Forskolin’s appeal is that it boosts cAMP, a cellular signal tied to fat breakdown — a clean mechanism that human results only partly support.
Common questions about Forskolin
What does Forskolin do for weight loss?
How much Forskolin should I take?
Is Forskolin safe?
How strong is the evidence for Forskolin?
Will Forskolin alone make me lose weight?
Does the dose in supplements match research?
Supplements with Forskolin
Formulas in the SourceLean directory that list Forskolin or a closely related form among their ingredients:
Related ingredients
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Ingredient insights, explained
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