Coleus: What It Is, How It Helps, and How to Use It Safely

If you’ve heard the name coleus in a supplement aisle or on a health blog, you’re not alone. This leafy plant, often sold as a stress‑relief herbal, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Today, many people turn to coleus tea, capsules, or extracts to calm nerves, support digestion, and boost mood. Below we break down the basics, the evidence, and what you need to know before adding it to your routine.

Key Benefits and What Science Says

Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) contains a compound called rosmarinic acid, which appears to lower cortisol – the hormone that spikes when you’re stressed. Small studies in humans show that taking coleus extract can reduce perceived stress scores by up to 30% after a few weeks. Besides stress, users report smoother digestion and a mild energy lift, likely because lower cortisol helps the gut function better.

While research is still limited, the findings match what folk healers have claimed for generations: a calmer mind and a happier tummy. If you’re looking for a non‑pharmaceutical way to manage everyday tension, coleus is worth a try.

How to Take Coleus: Forms, Dosage, and Safety Tips

Coleus comes in three main formats: dried leaf tea, liquid tincture, and standardized capsules. The most common dose used in studies is 300‑500 mg of a 4‑5% rosmarinic‑acid extract per day, taken with food. If you brew tea, steep 1‑2 teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water for 5‑10 minutes and drink 2‑3 cups daily.

Start low – a single capsule or a small cup of tea – and see how your body reacts. Most people experience no side effects, but a few report mild stomach upset or a slight drop in blood pressure. If you’re on blood‑pressure medication, talk to a pharmacist before mixing them.

Pregnant or nursing women should avoid coleus unless advised by a healthcare professional. Kids under 12 should not use it without medical guidance.

When buying coleus, look for products that list the exact rosmarinic‑acid content and have third‑party testing. This helps ensure you’re not getting filler or contaminants.

In short, coleus is a low‑risk herb that can fit into a stress‑management plan. Pair it with regular exercise, proper sleep, and a balanced diet for the best results.

Got more questions? Our TLH Pharma Guide library has deeper dives on herbal interactions, dosage calculators, and reliable online pharmacies where you can order verified supplements safely.