KARPOORAVALLI (Plectranthus barbatus)

 

Coleus, also known as Plectranthus barbatus or Indian coleus, is a tropical plant that has been used for medicinal purposes in India, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia for centuries. The plant belongs to the mint family and has distinctive green and purple leaves. In recent years, coleus has become increasingly popular as a supplement for weight loss and other health benefits. In this article, we will explore the uses of coleus in more detail.

Weight Loss:

One of the most common uses of coleus is as a weight loss supplement. The plant contains a chemical called forskolin, which has been shown to increase the levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) in the body. This, in turn, stimulates the release of stored fat from fat cells and increases the rate of metabolism. Several studies have shown that taking coleus supplements can lead to significant weight loss in overweight and obese individuals.

Asthma:

Coleus has also been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat respiratory disorders such as asthma. Forskolin has been shown to relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Several studies have shown that taking coleus supplements can improve lung function and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

Glaucoma:

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness. It is caused by increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. Forskolin has been shown to lower intraocular pressure, which is why it is sometimes used as a treatment for glaucoma. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety.

Cardiovascular Health:

Coleus has been shown to have several benefits for cardiovascular health. Forskolin has been shown to lower blood pressure by relaxing the walls of blood vessels. It has also been shown to improve heart function and increase blood flow to the heart. Additionally, coleus supplements have been shown to lower cholesterol levels in some studies.

Skin Health:

Coleus has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Forskolin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may explain its effectiveness in treating these conditions. Additionally, coleus supplements have been shown to increase blood flow to the skin, which can improve its overall health and appearance.

Other Uses:

In addition to the above uses, coleus has been used for a variety of other purposes. It has been used to treat digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and to stimulate appetite. It has also been used to treat menstrual cramps, urinary tract infections, and insomnia. Some people even use coleus as a natural insect repellent.

Side Effects:

While coleus supplements are generally safe for most people, they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include digestive upset, headache, and low blood pressure. Additionally, coleus supplements may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, coleus is a plant with many potential health benefits. Its active ingredient, forskolin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, weight loss, and cardiovascular benefits. It has also been used for centuries to treat respiratory disorders, skin conditions, and digestive disorders. While coleus supplements are generally safe, they may cause side effects in some individuals, and they may interact with certain medications. As with any supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking coleus to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

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DEEPIKA KRISHNAMOORTHY

A RESEARCH SCHOLAR