Forskolin

The active ingredient in Coleus forskohlii – an ancient Ayurvedic medicinal plant.  Forskolin stimulates production of a cellular “messenger” – cAMP (cyclic AMP) – which, in turn, stimulates production of hormone sensitive lipase (HSL), an enzyme involved in the breakdown of stored fat.  Forskolin (typically in the form of standardized extracts) is a common ingredient in fat loss supplements.  Most of the studies published on forskolin have used cell cultures, although  one peer-reviewed study shows (modest) effects in humans, as well.