Forskolin is a diterpenoid extracted from the root of Coleus forskohlii, a plant of the Lamiaceae family native to the Himalayas and India. What makes forskolin unique in the plant world is its ability to directly activate adenylate cyclase, the enzyme that produces cyclic AMP (AMPc) inside cells. AMPc is a universal second messenger that carries hormonal signals inside cells, activating lipolysis (breakdown of stored fat into free fatty acids), thermogenesis (heat production in brown fat tissue), and thyroid hormone production. Unlike other AMPc activators (caffeine, theophylline), which act indirectly, forskolin is the only known natural molecule that activates adenylate cyclase directly.

Forskolin has attracted growing scientific interest. In a notable study (Godard et al., 2005, Obesity Research), 30 overweight men took 250 mg of Coleus extract (10% forskolin) twice daily for 12 weeks, resulting in a significant decrease in fat mass and an increase in lean mass. A separate study in overweight women found forskolin helped limit weight gain without significant side effects. These results point to a selective action — favouring body recomposition (less fat, more muscle) rather than simple weight loss on the scale.

In Ayurveda, Coleus forskohlii is known as Makandi or Garmar, traditionally classed among plants that reduce adipose tissue and pacify Kapha, the dosha associated with excess weight and fluid retention. Classical texts mention the tuberous root of Coleus for eliminating excess fat, supporting digestive function, stimulating metabolism, and easing respiratory comfort. The Ayur-vana extract provides 800 mg of Coleus forskohlii per dose (2 capsules), including 80 mg of forskolin (10% titration) — a dosage consistent with clinical studies and traditional use.

Dosage: 2 capsules per day, ideally before meals (morning and midday). 60 capsules = 1 month’s course. Recommended course: 1 to 2 months, renewable after a 2-week break. Forskolin acts from the first weeks, but results on body composition require 8 to 12 weeks.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people on anticoagulant or antihypertensive medication, as forskolin may potentiate the effect of blood-pressure medicines. Consult a doctor if on thyroid treatment.

What is forskolin?

Forskolin is a natural diterpenoid extracted from the root of Coleus forskohlii. It is the only known natural molecule that directly activates adenylate cyclase, the enzyme that produces AMPc, a cellular messenger involved in lipolysis, thermogenesis and thyroid metabolism.

Does Coleus help with weight loss?

Studies show forskolin favours loss of fat mass while preserving lean mass — a body recomposition effect (less fat, more muscle) rather than simple weight loss. Results also depend on diet and physical activity.

Where can I buy Coleus Forskohlii in Paris?

Coleus Forskohlii Ayur-vana is on sale at Herba Barona, 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 6:30 pm.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.