Last verified: 20 days ago
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Forskolin do?
Plant compound that activates cAMP signaling. Limited clinical evidence; mostly used as a lab research tool.
What is the effective dose of Forskolin?
No established dose
Is Forskolin safe?
Most evidence comes from lab (in vitro) and animal studies, not human clinical trials
What doesn't Forskolin do?
Not proven to burn fat or build muscle — the weight loss claims common in supplements are not supported by the provided studies.
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