Last verified: today
Forskolin
Also known as: Coleus forskohlii extract, coleonol, 7beta-acetoxy-8,13-epoxy-1alpha,6beta,9alpha-trihydroxylabd-14-en-11-one
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Plant compound that activates cAMP signaling. Limited clinical evidence; mostly used as a lab research tool.
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What it does
Forskolin is a natural compound extracted from the roots of the Coleus forskohlii plant. It works by activating an enzyme called adenylyl cyclase, which raises levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) — a...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Forskolin is a natural compound extracted from the roots of the Coleus forskohlii plant. It works by activating an enzyme called adenylyl cyclase, which raises levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) — a cellular messenger involved in many body processes. One randomized clinical trial found that oral forskolin improved smell function in people with persistent olfactory loss after COVID-19, though the exact dose used was not reported in the abstract.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to burn fat or build muscle — the weight loss claims common in supplements are not supported by the provided studies. No evidence from these papers that it boosts testosterone in humans. The multi-ingredient weight loss study provided cannot isolate forskolin's contribution. Most research showing effects is from lab cells or animal models, not human trials.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May improve smell function in people with persistent olfactory loss after COVID-19.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
As part of a plant extract blend, may help reduce recurrent urinary tract infections.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies. Used as a lab tool at controlled concentrations; human absorption data not reported.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most evidence comes from lab (in vitro) and animal studies, not human clinical trials
- The one clinical trial for olfactory dysfunction had notable dropout rates and did not clearly report the dose used
- Commonly sold in weight-loss supplements despite no direct human evidence for fat loss in the provided studies
- Detected as a residual substance in cultured meat production, raising questions about industrial use and exposure contexts
- Frequently used as a multi-ingredient blend component, making it impossible to isolate its individual effects
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25