Herbal Extract
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Forskolin increases cAMP to promote fat breakdown. Godard et al. (2005, n=30) found forskolin 250 mg (10% extract) twice daily significantly reduced body fat and increased lean mass in overweight men. However, evidence is limited to one main trial, and effects in women and larger populations are unknown.
Forskolin has a strong mechanistic rationale (direct cAMP elevation → lipolysis) but very limited clinical evidence. The Godard trial is the primary positive study, showing impressive body composition changes in overweight men. A study in women (Henderson et al., 2005) found no significant fat loss. The evidence base is too small to make confident recommendations, but the mechanism is well-understood and the safety profile is good.
Forskolin has a strong mechanistic rationale (direct cAMP elevation → lipolysis) but very limited clinical evidence.
| Form | Bioavailability | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Coleus forskohlii Extract (10% forskolin) | Moderate | The standardization used in the Godard trial |
| Coleus forskohlii Extract (20% forskolin) | Moderate | Higher concentration — adjust dose accordingly |
General recommendation: 250 mg of 10% forskolin extract twice daily with meals
Timing: Take with meals, divided into two daily doses • Take with food for best absorption.
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Body composition | 500 mg/day of 10% extract (50 mg forskolin) | Preliminary |
Upper limit: 500 mg/day of 10% extract (50 mg forskolin); higher doses not well studied
Safety profile: Generally Safe
There is one well-designed trial showing significant fat loss and lean mass gain in overweight men. However, a similar trial in women showed no weight loss (though it prevented weight gain). The evidence is too limited for confident recommendations. The mechanism (cAMP elevation → lipolysis) is scientifically sound, but more trials are needed.
The Godard trial showed testosterone increases in men, which may have contributed to the body composition improvements. Women did not show the same effects in the Henderson trial. Hormonal differences in fat metabolism and the role of testosterone in lean mass preservation may explain the sex-dependent results.
Forskolin is the active compound extracted from the root of the Coleus forskohlii plant. Supplements are typically standardized to 10-20% forskolin content. The whole herb has additional compounds, but forskolin is the primary bioactive for cAMP activation.