forskohlii
Plectranthus barbatus
Plectranthus barbatus is a plant traditionally used with no specific recorded practices. Scientific evidence suggests that it may have potential in detecting heavy metals, particularly lead ions, and shows vasodilatory effects through adenylyl cyclase activation and ion channel modulation. Additionally, the plant has been found to produce forskolin, a diterpenoid, in Synechocystis sp., though this does not directly relate to its traditional use or current applications. The hydroethanolic extracts of Plectranthus barbatus have shown varying effects on reducing writhes and altering intestinal transit in mice, supporting some traditional uses. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for the plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This study demonstrates that fluorescent nanocellulose derived from Plectranthus barbatus effectively detects Pb(II) ions in aqueous solutions with a detection limit of 2.7 nM.
- Plectranthus barbatus shows vasodilatory and blood pressure modulating effects through adenylyl cyclase activation and ion channel modulation.
- The study demonstrated heterologous production of forskolin, a structurally complex diterpenoid, in Synechocystis sp. PCC. 6803 at a titer of 25.0 ± 4.4 µg/L without negatively impacting cell growth.
- The study found that hydroethanolic extracts of Plectranthus barbatus, along with other plants, showed varying effects in reducing writhes and altering intestinal transit in mice, supporting some traditional uses.
Frequently asked questions
What is forskohlii?
forskohlii (Plectranthus barbatus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about forskohlii?
4 sourced findings are recorded for forskohlii; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This study demonstrates that fluorescent nanocellulose derived from Plectranthus barbatus effectively detects Pb(II) ions in aqueous solutions with a detection limit of 2.7 nM.
How strong is the evidence for forskohlii?
The strongest finding for forskohlii carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is forskohlii safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for forskohlii in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does forskohlii interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for forskohlii in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is forskohlii a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Phytochemical analysis and investigation of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic activities of hydroethanolic extracts of Alternanthera dentata, Ocimum carnosum, and Plectranthus barbatus, three species with vernacular names deri literature abstract metadata
- T2 Heterologous Production of the Structurally Complex Diterpenoid Forskolin in Synechocystis sp. PCC. 6803. literature abstract metadata
- T2 From the Amazon to modern pharmacology: medicinal plants as metabolic and cardiovascular modulators in cardiodiabesity. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fluorescent nanocellulose derived from Plectranthus barbatus for the selective detection of Pb(ii) ions in aqueous solutions. literature abstract metadata