Magnolia officinalis (Magnolia Bark Extract)
Traditional Chinese herb that reduces cortisol, supports sleep, and promotes relaxation without sedation.
Magnolia Bark has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries for anxiety and digestive issues. Its active compounds, honokiol and magnolol, modulate GABA receptors and reduce cortisol. Research shows benefits for stress, anxiety, sleep quality, and even weight management through cortisol reduction. Works quickly and without next-day grogginess.
Enhances calming GABA activity
Lowers stress hormone levels
How Magnolia Bark works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
200-400mg (standardized to 2% honokiol and magnolol)
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (honokiol/magnolol content specified) | Recommended |
| 💊Relora (magnolia + phellodendron blend) | Alternative |
Look for standardized extracts. Relora is a popular proprietary blend combining magnolia with phellodendron bark.
Minimum: 2 weeks
Optimal: 4 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Works quickly. Take 30-60 min before bed for sleep. Can be taken during day for anxiety.
Reduced feelings of anxiety
Easier sleep onset and better quality
Lower perceived stress
Avoid — traditional use advises against
May have additive sedative effects
May enhance sedation
Tip: Reduce dose; take in evening
Tip: Usually resolves
Top studies from 18+ peer-reviewed papers
Olas B • International journal of molecular sciences (2025)
“There are also no recommendations regarding their effective or safe doses for prophylaxis and the treatment of CVDs.”
Dobrek L et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2023)
“It provides the mechanisms of action revealed in experimental studies of active ingredients isolated from herbal antidepressants and presents the results of selected clinical studies confirming their antidepressant effectiveness.”
Szałabska-Rąpała K et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2021)
“After careful analysis of many scientific articles, it can be concluded that this lignan is a promising agent supporting the conventional therapies with antidiabetic drugs in order to manage diabetes and diabetes-related diseases.”
Poivre M et al. • Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B (2017)
“The present review aims to summarize the literature on M. officinalis bark composition, utilisation, pharmacology, and safety.”
Zhao X et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2016)
“The aim of this review is to present a systematic overview of bioactive constituents in Magnolia bark that induce the prevention of obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and diabetic complications, including cardiovascular, liver, and kidney.”
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