Botanical Name: Coleus forskohlii (Plectranthus barbatus)
Common Name: Coleus
Family: Lamiaceae
Description of Coleus Plant/Habitat:
Coleus (Plectranthus barbatus) is a small perennial member of the mint family which can be found growing in subtropical areas in India, Nepal, Burma, Thailand and Sri Lanka. It has tuberous roots and bright green leaves and has a distinctly camphor-like aroma.
Part(s) used:
Root
Key Active Components:
Tisanes, rosmarinic acid, labdane diterpenoids (forskolin), essential oils.
Coleus Properties:
- Coleus forskolin has shown antioxidant activity and acetylcholinesterase inhibition
- Coleus forskolin increases cAMP. Higher levels of cAMP are associated with increased fat loss in research studies.
Coleus Taste/Character/Energetics:
Pungent, cooling but neutral energy
Summary of Actions:
Primary Actions: positive ionotrope (increases forceful contraction), antispasmodic (relaxing), anti-platelet aggregant (A fib), vasodilator (relaxing)
Secondary Actions: anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, insulin modulator
Medicinal Use:
Traditional
- Coleus is an ayurvedic herb that balances the three doshas, used for centuries as a premier herb to improve circulation and reduce inflammatory pathways
Cardiovascular
- Inhibits platelet activity, decreasing the risk of blood clotting
- Increases the force of the contraction of heart muscle improving heart function
- Reduces blood pressure in hypertension without reducing contractility
Musculoskeletal
- Works as an antispasmodic in tissues
- Reduces colic and cramping in GI and Urinary systems
- Reduces bronchospasm through nervous system relaxation of smooth muscle
- Anti-inflammatory indicated in joint swelling (rheumatism)
Immune
- Reduces stimulation of histamine in allergic reactions
- Inhibits the melanoma-induced platelet aggregation, and tumor colonization
- Increases secretion of thyroid hormone
- Improves fat metabolism and insulin modulation
- Specific use for glaucoma when applied topically, decreasing intraocular pressure by reducing the flow of aqueous humor
Specific Indications:
- Glaucoma- topically
- Clotting issues
- Hypertension
- Heart function
- Thyroid function
- Rheumatic conditions
- Asthma
Coleus Safety:
Theoretical additive effect when combined with hypotensive medications or blood thinners
Preparation and Dosage:
Tincture (1:3): 3-5 ml twice per day to three times per day
Infusion: 2-3 cups/day
Powdered: 200-400 mg twice per day
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