An evidence-based review: Anti-obesity effects of Coleus forskohlii

Abstract

Background

Coleus forskohlii (Lamiaceae) is an Indian plant that has been used in traditional Indian medicine, Ayurveda. In the recent years, C. forskohlii extract has been used as a functional food for treating obesity and for promoting healthy weight management.

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the anti-obesity effects of C. forskohlii.

Study selection

We conducted a comprehensive literature search by using electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane database, for all articles published up to July 2015 and by handsearching using Google Scholar. The search terms used to obtain relevant articles included C. forskohlii, dietary supplement, weight loss, and overweight/obesity. There were no limitations of language and time.

Results

We identified 7 clinical studies; of those, 4 were randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies and the others were open-label studies. The C. forskohlii extract had a significant benefit on body composition in overweight/obese subjects. No major adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The C. forskohlii extract showed a substantial effect on weight loss and was safe and effective in reducing body fat in overweight/obese people. However, additional trials with high quality are required to establish a high level of evidence for the appropriate use of C. forskohlii extract as a personalized supplement and/or a pharmacological intervention.