The primary mechanism through which forskolin (the main bioactive compound in Coleus forskohlii) exerts its effects is by activating almost all (8 out of 9) isoforms of the enzyme adenylyl cyclase,[1] which, in turn, increases the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within cells.[2] This increase in cAMP levels results in the subsequent modulation of various cellular processes through the activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and other proteins or enzymes, which, in turn, affect a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, hormone secretion, muscle contraction, and neurotransmission.[3][4]
How does Coleus forskohlii work?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Forskolin, the main bioactive compound in Coleus forskohlii, increases levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cells. This rise in cAMP modulates various cellular processes through the activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and other proteins, which influences metabolism, hormone secretion, muscle contraction, and neurotransmission.