Which herb has bronchodilator, hypotensive, and antispasmodic actions?

• A. Corydalis ambigua
• B. Coleus forskohlii
• C. Commiphora mukul
• D. Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Answer: (B)

Coleus forskohlii fits these actions because its active constituent forskolin directly stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing intracellular cAMP. Higher cAMP in smooth muscle causes relaxation, leading to bronchodilation in the airways, relaxation of vascular smooth muscle (lowering blood pressure), and antispasmodic effects on other smooth muscles. This combination of bronchodilatory, hypotensive, and antispasmodic actions is characteristic of forskolin’s mechanism. The other herbs don’t share this profile: Corydalis ambigua is mainly an analgesic/sedative, Commiphora mukul (guggul) focuses on lipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory effects, and cinnamon is primarily a warming, digestive herb with no strong bronchodilator/hypotensive/antispasmodic triad.