magnolia bark extract

Magnolia bark extract is a botanical preparation derived primarily from the bark of Magnolia officinalis (Rehd. & Wils.), used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, allergic diseases, and menopause symptoms[1][4][6]. The principal active compounds are magnolol and honokiol, both of which are biphenolic neolignans shown in in vitro and animal studies to exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects[1][2][5][6][8]. Magnolia bark and its bioactive constituents act, among other mechanisms, as modulators of the endocannabinoid system: magnolol is a partial agonist at the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), with selectivity over CB1, while honokiol can act as a full agonist at CB1 and an antagonist at CB2[6]. Metabolites such as tetrahydromagnolol have enhanced potency and selectivity for CB2[6]. Magnolia bark extract also inhibits proinflammatory pathways and has been shown to interact with GPR55, a CB-related orphan receptor[6]. It is studied for use in mood and sleep disorders, menopause, inflammation, metabolic disorders, and cognitive impairment, but human clinical evidence remains limited[1][4]. Magnolia bark extract is commercially available in dietary supplement formulations, including the brand Relora[1].

Brand names

Relora

Other names

Magnolia officinalis extractMagnolia barkHu-bakMagnolia cortexHoupoMagnoliae officinalis cortex extractMagnoliae cortex