Magnolia Bark (Relora) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Magnolia Bark is used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve sleep.
Magnolia Bark (Magnolia officinalis), often found in supplements as Relora, is a traditional Chinese medicine herb used for stress, mood, and sleep support. It is derived from the bark of magnolia trees.
Its active compounds, honokiol and magnolol, may influence GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Relora is a trademarked blend often combining magnolia with phellodendron.
Magnolia bark is taken for stress, mood balance, and sleep support. Preliminary studies show promise, but more research is needed to fully confirm its long-term benefits and safety.
Other names & forms of Magnolia Bark (Relora) supplement : magnolia officinalis, relora, magnolia bark extract
Benefits
Magnolia Bark (Relora) contains honokiol and magnolol, two lignans known to help regulate cortisol levels and support stress adaptation.
- Helps reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, supporting Nervous System & Stress Relief through HPA axis modulation.
- May improve Sleep Support by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime cortisol peaks.
- Often used to aid Weight Loss by curbing stress-induced cravings and balancing cortisol.
- Provides mild antioxidant protection, which can contribute to overall General Health.
Dosage
Individuals often adjust the dosage of Magnolia Bark (Relora) supplement according to their specific health objectives:
- Stress and anxiety support: 200–400 mg/day of Magnolia Bark extract, often combined with Phellodendron (Relora formula).
- Standardized content: 2–5% honokiol or magnolol for best results.
- Capsule form: 250 mg once or twice daily, preferably with meals.
- Recommendation: May cause drowsiness; avoid driving if affected.
Side Effects
Magnolia Bark (Relora) may help reduce stress, but some users experience mild side effects as cortisol levels adjust. Watch for:
- Occasional mild sedation or drowsiness, especially when taken in higher doses
- Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or stomach cramps—if taken on an empty stomach
- Possible headache or lightheadedness in sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in those sensitive to magnolia or phellodendron species
- Temporary changes in appetite—either increased or decreased—during initial use
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Sedatives and anxiolytics: Magnolia Bark’s honokiol and magnolol may potentiate benzodiazepines or supplements like Valerian, increasing drowsiness and dizziness.
- Antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents: Mild platelet inhibition can add to warfarin or Garlic, increasing bleeding risk—monitor INR if used systemically.
- Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs): Magnolia’s GABAergic effects may influence mood stabilizers or SSRIs, potentially causing additive sedation—use under medical supervision.
Precautions
Before adding Magnolia Bark (Relora) to your routine, check if any of the following apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:
- Individuals on sedative or anxiolytic medications: May enhance sedative effects; use under medical supervision
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose supplements
- People with liver or kidney impairment: Metabolism and excretion may be altered; monitor organ function if used long term
- Those with low blood pressure: Relora can lower blood pressure; monitor levels to prevent hypotension
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—may interact with anesthesia and sedation
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Magnolia Bark (Relora) benefits:
A 2015 randomized trial in 60 adults found 160 mg Relora® (magnolia-tulsi extract) daily for 6 weeks reduced cortisol by 18% and perceived stress scores by 22% versus placebo (P < 0.05).
No RCTs
have evaluated magnolia bark alone for sleep or anxiety, and comparative trials versus standard anxiolytics are lacking.Despite promising pilot data, no trials confirm long-term safety or efficacy.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Magnolia Bark (Relora) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.