coleus

Common name
Makandi
Botanical name
Coleus forskohlii
Parts used and where grown
This attractive, perennial member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family originated in the lower elevations of India. It is now grown around the world as an ornamental plant. The root is used medicinally.
Coleus has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
** - Asthma (forskolin)
** - Glaucoma (forskolin)
* - Cardiomyopathy (forskolin)
* - Congestive heart failure
* - Hypertension (forskolin)
* - Obesity
* - Psoriasis
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
As recorded in ancient Sanskrit texts, coleus was used in Ayurvedic medicine1 to treat heart and lung diseases, intestinal spasms, insomnia, and convulsions.
Active constituents
Forskolin, a chemical found in coleus, activates the enzyme adenylate cyclase.2 This enzyme is a turnkey compound that initiates a cascade of critical events within every cell of the body. Adenylate cyclase and the chemicals it activates comprise a “second messenger” system that is responsible for carrying out the complex and powerful effects of hormones in the body. Stimulation of the second messenger system by forskolin leads to blood vessel dilation,3 inhibition of allergic reactions,4 and an increase in thyroid hormone secretion.5 Forskolin has other properties as well, including inhibition of the pro-inflammatory substance known as platelet-activating factor (PAF)6 and inhibition of the spread of cancer cells.7
Studies in healthy humans, including at least one double-blind trial, have shown that direct application of an ophthalmic preparation of forskolin to the eyes lowers eye pressure,8 9 thus reducing the risk of glaucoma. Direct application of the whole herb to the eyes has not been studied and is not recommended.
Forskolin may help dilate blood vessels and improve the forcefulness with which the heart pumps blood. A preliminary trial found that forskolin reduced blood pressure and improved heart function in people with cardiomyopathy.10 It is unknown if oral coleus extracts would have the same effect. A small double-blind trial found that inhaled forskolin could decrease lung spasms in asthmatics.11 It is unclear if oral ingestion of coleus extracts will provide similar benefits.
How much is usually taken?
Coleus extracts standardized to 10 to 18% forskolin are available. While some doctors expert in herbal medicine recommend 50–100 mg two to three times per day of standardized coleus extract, these amounts are extrapolations and have yet to be confirmed by direct clinical research.12 Most studies have used injected forskolin, so it is unclear if oral ingestion of coleus extracts will provide similar benefits in the amounts recommended above. Until ophthalmic preparations of coleus or forskolin are available, people with glaucoma should consult with a skilled healthcare practitioner to obtain a sterile fluid extract for use in the eyes.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Few adverse effects of coleus have been reported. It should be avoided in people with ulcers, because it may increase stomach acid levels. Direct application to the eyes may cause transitory tearing, burning, and itching. The safety of coleus in pregnancy and breast-feeding is unknown.
Drug Interactions
Certain medicines interact with coleus: Some interactions may increase the need for coleus (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate coleus should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Advair Diskus (+)
Albuterol (+)
Aspirin (-)
Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine (+)
Epinephrine (+)
Salmeterol (+)
Source: www.cncahealth.com