The Forskolin and Artichoke extract stack is a combination of natural compounds that may yield increases to memory and mental focus.
Long used in Indian medicine, Forskolin is a derivative of the Coleus forskohlii plant. It plays a major role in cognitive function through the simulation of ATP enzymes. When combined with the inhibitory functions of Artichoke extract, these memory-boosting effects can be exponentially multiplied. The result is a powerful nootropic supplement stack for learning and intelligence.
Mainly known to U.S. consumers as a part of the CILTEP combo stack, Artichoke Extract and Forskolin are being a new area of interest among brain supplements. This article will take a closer look each of these supplements and how they work together in a CILTEP stack.



- Boosts thyroid function & lipolysis
- Promotes energy, stamina & concentration
- Supports weight loss & appetite suppression
Forskolin for Memory
Related Topics
Taken on its own, Forskolin has been shown to provide powerful memory benefits.
Derived from the leaves of an ancient mint bush, Forskolin activates the enzyme called adenylate cyclase, which promotes the generation of cAMP (Cyclic adenosine monophosphate).
cAMP is important in neural function because it is responsible for certain types of intercellular signaling. This secondary messenger give cells vital instructions which are in turn the basis for all communication and reaction in the brain.
The body has its own mechanisms for activating cAMP, largely through the release of Adrenaline and Epinephrine. cAMP is vital for transforming short term memory into long term memory.
It also contributes to overall neuroplasticity, meaning the brain has the flexibility to grow and adapt over time in step with changing conditions and new information. As we will see below, when we consume a Forskolin and Artichoke stack together, cAMP levels can be dramatically increased.
Forskolin also increases blood flow to various neural structures via vasodilation – increasing the volume of blood that can pass through blood vessels. This action delivers oxygen-rich, nutrient-dense blood to neural tissues, improving overall function and increasing the rate of neurogenesis and synaptogenesis.
How Artichoke Extract Works
Thought of by most people as simply an edible vegetable food source, Artichoke also contains vital nutrients for cognitive function. On its own, Artichoke Extract has an inhibitory effect upon an enzyme called Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4). This is important because PDE-4 can break down cAMP, blocking its functions in the body.
So, by reducing the amount of PDE-4, Artichoke Extract boosts the amount of available cAMP in the brain. This may improve short term memory and its conversion or consolidation into permanent long term memories.
Artichoke Extract also performs vital functions in the liver. It is a powerful aid to detoxifying the body and boosting the liver’s productivity. It does this by shielding the liver against toxic damage. It also stimulate the release of bile. This action contributes to improved purification of blood, which will then be delivered to the brain via the vasodilation effects of a Forskolin and Artichoke extract stack.



- Boosts bile production for liver health
- Supports digestive health & weight loss
- May improve cholesterol levels
Stacking Forskolin and Artichoke Extract
When combined into one supplement regimen, a Forskolin extract and Artichoke extract stack provides noticeable improvements to memory and mental focus. Together, the supplements are thought to enhance the rate of LTP – Long Term Potentiation. LTP is the name we give the physical conversion of short term memories into long term memories in the brain.
What this translates into for the typical user is a greater ability to comprehend and retain facts. This could be advantageous in a school setting, where reading, synthesizing, and remembering vast amounts of information in a short period of time is vital to success.
But even for non-students, the ability to learn and retain is a crucial component of life, impacting all careers and touching everything from managing finances to interpersonal dealings.
The enhanced cAMP levels and boosted brain circulation of a Forskolin extract and Artichoke stack also create a feeling of fluidity of thoughts, granting ready access to both short and long term memories.
This creates a sensation of clear mental focus no matter the task. Reasoning and problem solving skills are improved. These qualities can be applied to scholarly endeavors, such as reading a challenging textbook, or simply to understanding the complex dynamics of social situations.
Research on the memory boosting effects of Forskolin and Artichoke extract are promising, however the research is limited, and more studies need to be done. At this time, the FDA has not approved either Forskolin or Artichoke extract as drugs to prevent or treat any conditions, and both are available as dietary supplements only.
The CILTEP Stack
Forskolin and Artichoke Extract are somewhat rare in mainstream discussions of nootropics. Most people experience the pairing as a part of the famous CILTEP (Chemically Induced Long-Term Potentiation) combo pill. This well-known pre-packaged stack is designed specifically as a power booster for total memory function.
Driven by an innovative desire to come up with new ways to increase LTP in the brain, the CILTEP stack was originally developed by a nootropic user from the Longecity forum known as Abelard Lindsey.
He took up the “sport” of brain hacking in order to devise the safest and most effective nootropic solution for improving mental function. As he discovered, consuming Forskolin with Artichoke created profound enhancements to synaptic growth and communication.
CILTEP is able to provide users with the optimum memory benefits of both synergistic compounds. This stack uses a well-designed dosage ratio of 20 mg of Forskolin and 900 mg of Artichoke extract per dose. At this dosage level, most users will find that side effects are rare but benefits may be profound. Acetyl-L-Carnitine and L-Phenylalaline are also added, making CILTEP one of the most complete memory supplements on the market.
If you would like to experience improvements in the way you process and retain information then you may want to consider taking Forskolin and Artichoke extract supplements separately or as part of a packaged stack like the CILTEP stack.
Article last updated on: April 16th, 2018 by Nootriment