Basic Information on Forskolin
Once again, ancient Ayurvedic medicine proves its merits in modern sports. It is, after all, the source of forskolin, an amazing compound extracted from the Indian Coleus plant (Coleus forskohlii) that is gaining acceptance in the world of athletes because of its biological importance.
What Is Forskolin?
Forskolin, with the molecular formula of C22H34O7 , are commonly and commercially obtained from the roots of the Indian Coleus plant. The extraction process yields a viscous and dark brown essential oil, which is also used in other applications like skin care and aromatherapy due to its antibacterial properties and delicate aroma.
The Indian Coleus plant is a member of a family of mints and lavenders prevalent in Asian countries like India, Thailand and Burma. It is the subject of many modern researches due to its beneficial effects in the maintenance of health for the heart, lungs and eyes.
What Applications Does It Have in Sports?
Along with epinephrine and other compounds, forskolin is one of the standard substances utilized in scientific research whenever a fat-burning agent is required. Thus, it has the potential as a weight loss aid although it must be noted that there is a limited body of research on this aspect.
The little scientific study available on the compound points to forskolin's ability to initiate processes that cause fat loss particularly in topical applications. Also, forskolin appears to increase thyroid hormone production in addition to stimulating thyroid hormone release. As anybody in the athletic world knows, the higher the thyroid hormone released, the higher the metabolism rate.
There is one study that points to the role of forskolin in significantly enhancing lean and bone mass as well as testosterone levels in the research subjects, which has the potential of improving muscular performance.
How Does It Work?
Forskolin activates the adenylate cyclase enzyme, which then transforms into cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The increase of cAMP presence in the body initiates multiple processes of which the most beneficial for fat loss is the activation of the kinase protein.
When the kinase protein activation takes place, the hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) is similarly activated that ultimately leads to fat breakdown and fat loss. The whole process is referred to as "lipolytic cascade" and/or "cAMP cascade".
In contrast with its lipolytic hormone counterparts, forskolin bypasses the adverse side effects like restlessness and nervousness. As such, it is often preferred than, say, epinephrine in weight loss supplements.
Are There Adverse Side Effects? Although there are no reported adverse side effects in forskolin use, consultations with a licensed medical practitioner is strongly recommended especially when you have medications for asthma, allergies and glaucoma. Since it is also an antihistamine, drowsiness can occur but it can be remedied by lowering the dosage, ingesting it with a stimulant or taking it before bedtime.
How Should Forskolin be taken? Forskolin is typically taken at divided doses of 2-3 capsules daily for a total of 28-60mg. Ideally speaking, however, 50-60mg is recommended.
Be very careful in purchasing forskolin products as there are diluted concentrations of just 2% extract in the market. Look for high-quality extracts at 10-20% concentration of forskolin.
When you do decide to take forskolin, keep in mind that it is an adjunct supplementation to your weight loss efforts instead of being the primary strategy. You may have to take other supplements with yohimbe to complement its effects.
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