Released on = December 10, 2005, 10:40 am

Press Release Author = Boots Herbal Stores

Industry = Healthcare

Press Release Summary = Coleous Forskohlli is a plant which grows in the wild in
India, Nepal and Thailand. Recent studies indicate this plant - a relative to the
Mint family - could be of benefit to sufferers of Glaucoma, Alzheimer's and
Psoriasis

Press Release Body = According to ancient texts, the plant coleus forskohlli was
used in medicine to treat heart and lung diseases, intestinal spasms, insomnia and
convulsions. Recent studies are showing that extracts of the plant an be used to
tread such diverse conditions as Glaucoma, Alzheimer's and Psoriasis.

Forskolin, a chemical found in coleus, activates the enzyme adenylate cyclase. 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, inhibition of allergic reactions, and
an increase in thyroid hormone secretion. Forskolin has other properties as well,
including inhibition of the pro-inflammatory substance known as platelet-activating
factor (PAF) and inhibition of the spread of cancer cells. Other 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, thus reducing the risk of glaucoma

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. 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.

"It has the potential to reverse symptoms of weight gain, help ease indigestion,
lower the risk of developing conditions such as stokes, heart disease and thrombosis
and fight Alzheimer's and psoriasis" announced Keith Woolley, Technical Director of
Boots Herbal Stores, after interpreting the studies. "This important remedy should
not be overlooked and we are pleased to be able to bring more information on the
remedy to the market place".

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.



Web Site = http://www.ethicalvitamins.co.uk

Contact Details = Keith Woolley