Coleus forskohlii (also called Plectranthus barbatus and Coleus barbatus) is an aromatic perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including the Indian subcontinent, Thailand, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Egypt.[1] Coleus forskohlii has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, respiratory, urinary, and central nervous system disorders.[2][3] Forskolin, the main bioactive compound in Coleus forskohlii, has been investigated as a potential treatment for asthma, glaucoma, and high blood pressure, as well as a fat burner and testosterone booster.[4][5][6][7][8]
What is Coleus forskohlii?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Coleus forskohlii, also known as Plectranthus barbatus, is an aromatic perennial plant from the mint family and is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for various disorders and contains forskolin, which has been studied for its potential benefits in treating asthma, glaucoma, high blood pressure and as a fat burner.