How Does Magnolia Bark Affect Stress?

Magnolia trees are recognized for their beauty; however, there is a significant health-enhancing element in the bark of magnolia trees. Magnolia bark holds a solution for stress management. The bark can not only help reduce stress, but potentially address other health issues that can result in stress.

Historical Use of Magnolia Bark

• Magnolia bark is an herbal remedy obtained from the plants within the Magnoliaceae family. It is obtained by removing the skin from the stem and roots. The use of magnolia bark for medicinal purposes dates back to at least 100 A.D. when it was first described in the "Shennong Bencao Jing," a book of Chinese medicines. In the book, magnolia bark is listed as a remedy for many different ailments, among them "fright chi", an indication that magnolia bark was used to treat the symptoms of emotional and mental stress.

Magnolia Bark and Cortisol

• Magnolia bark's relation to stress reduction comes from its regulation of the production of the body's stress hormone, cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisol is naturally released in an irregular manner. In addition to regulating the storage and mobilization of energy, it also regulates the storage of fat. When the body experiences prolonged periods of stress it may overproduce cortisol which can lead to a lack of sustained energy and significant weight gain. Magnolia bark keeps cortisol levels controlled, which can positively affect the body's stress management function.

Magnolia Bark and Anxiety

• In addition to potentially reducing stress by regulating the body's cortisol manufacturing, Magnolia bark can also help manage anxiety. According to the website HerbWisdom.com, the chemical "honokiol," found in Magnolia bark, is stronger than the drug diazepan (Valium) and does not have the side affects, such as muscle relaxation, that are associated with diazepan.

Magnolia Bark and Immune System Health

• Magnolia bark is rich in antioxidants, and according to the website "Herbal Wisdom" Magnolia bark is stronger than Vitamin E with regard to antioxidant strength and amount. Any substance rich in antioxidants will not only promote a strong immune system, but the chemicals in the bark that contributes to the antioxidant strength, honokiol and magnolol, are thought to have a significant role in the cortisol-balancing qualities of the bark.

Magnolia Bark and Cognitive Health

• Magnolia bark is thought to have a significant positive effect on cognitive functioning. The bark has a strong effect on chemical levels in the brain, including acetylcholine levels. Alzheimer's disease is, in part, a result of low levels of acetylcholine in the brain. Both honokiol and magnolol increase choline acetyltransferase activity which can lead to increased levels of production.