Forskolin is derived from the Indian coleus plant, coleus forskohlii and is a labdane diterpene, with antibacterial, anti-protozoal, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. Terpene are hydrocarbons, for instance, Vitamin A is a terpene. Forskolin is used to raise cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in blood, which is an important messenger for multiple biological processes. In humans, cAMP is associated with the management of sugar, lipid and glycogen metabolism, as well as the intracellular signal transduction, including the transfer of effects of glucagon and adrenaline, two essential hormones. Forskolin is deemed a vasodilator, relaxing the smooth muscle tissue within vessel walls, essentially lowering blood pressure. In body building perspective, effects of forskolin in clinical studies have shown that it significantly increases lean muscle mass, bone mass and testosterone levels.

Tribulus Terrestris refers to an herb used in India and China as traditional medicines for centuries. Tribulus Terrestris contains active compounds known as steroidal saponins, and these are basically found in the leaf. The tribulus consists of furostanol and spirostanol glycosides. People use Tribulus Terrestris for erectile dysfunction as well as low libido. This has gained popularity owing to sports performance improvement. This is available in Russia and Bulgaria as it enhances the testosterone hormone levels, estrogen and DHEA. Tribulus Terrestris supplements taken for four weeks showed no effect on the hormones of the male sex. Preliminary studies heightened the sexual behavior in animals and yet the studies have not confirmed its effect on human beings. However, Tribulus is popular as an aid for sports performance as it shows no effect in exercise performance or body composition. Tribulus do not show any significant change in fat or body weight and this difference can be felt by experiencing strength in the leg press. Conversely, nursing or pregnant women should avoid taking Tribulus.

Vitex agnus-castus is commonly called vitex. It is also known by its other names such as chaste tree, chasteberry or monk’s pepper. It is plant which is native to the Mediterranean region. Since it has aromatic foliage and flowers, it is cultivated in warm and subtropical regions. In Africa, vitex is a traditional but little known plant. It boosts of food security and also has the potential of improving nutrition. It is also used for foster rural development and it also supports sustainable land care. During pregnancy, the usage of vitex agnus-castus might increase the chance of complications. Therefore, it should be avoided during pregnancy. As it have effects on the testosterone levels, male body builder’s use vitex agnus-castus as a supplement but only as a secondary component.