Magnolia Bark

Magnolia Bark

David Tomen
Author:
David Tomen
11 minute read
Magnolia Bark is known for its anti-anxiety and stress-relieving effects, reducing depression, and promoting restful sleep.

Magnolia Bark (Magnolia officinalis, Magnoliae cortex, Houpo, Chua houpu) has been traditionally used in Chinese and Japanese medicine for the treatment of depression, anxiety, neurosis, and related neurological disorders.

Clinical research in the last couple of decades demonstrate how Magnolia Bark as a nootropic supplement can be so effective for taking care of what our ancestors already knew. By reducing anxiety, depression, pain, symptoms of epilepsy, and other neurocognitive disorders including Alzheimer’s.

The polyphenols found in Magnolia Bark include magnolol and honokiol which provide its nootropic benefits.

As a nootropic, Magnolia Bark is used primarily to lower stress and promote a good night’s sleep.

Magnolia Bark helps:

  • The Magnolia Bark compound honokiol appears to be as effective as diazepam for relieving anxiety with fewer side effects.
  • Magnolia Bark interacts with the adenosine A1 receptor, dopamine transporter, dopamine D5 receptor (antagonist), serotonin receptors 5-HT1B and 5-HT6 (antagonist), GABAA receptors, hippocampus acetylcholine release, and modulates serotonin activity.[i] And is an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor.[ii]
  • The compounds honokiol and magnolol found in Magnolia Bark have been shown to significantly decrease β-amyloid (Aβ)-induced neuronal death associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.[iii]

Overview

Magnolia Bark (Magnolia officinalis) comes from the Magnolia tree originally found in Southeast Asia, Eastern North America, Central America and the Himalayas. Its flowers are fragrant with white petals.[iv]

Magnolia Bark
Magnolia officinalis

Magnolia Bark was first recorded in the “Shennong Herbal Classic” from the Qin and Han Dynasty around 221 B.C. to 220 A.D. It was used to anxiety, asthma, depression, gastrointestinal disorders, headache, and more.[v]

More than 250 different chemical compounds have been identified in the flowers, bark, and leaves of the Magnolia. But most of its therapeutic potential comes from the bark and roots.

The Magnolia bud is almost exclusively used to treat sinus congestion and sinus headache.[vi]

Magnolia Bark is harvested in the spring from April to June. The root and branch bark are boiled in water and set aside until it turns a purplish brown color. This concoction is then steamed, rolled and dried.

Early chemical studies identified two main active ingredients in the Magnolia Bark: magnolol and honokiol. These neolignanes are the main active components providing its nootropic benefit. [vii]

Other bioactive compounds from Magnolia Bark are the alkaloids benzyl-tetrahydroisoquinoline and aporphine which are found in the leaves, branches and bark. These alkaloids may also have antispasmodic and muscle relaxant benefits.[viii]

Magnolia Bark has been traditionally used to treat diabetes, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, and microbial infections.

Studies in human cells indicate a growth inhibitor effect of honokiol and magnolol on human melanoma and carcinoma cells. There is increased interest in developing a novel analogue for chemotherapy derived from Magnolia Bark.[ix]

magnolia bark extractHow does Magnolia Bark work in the brain?

Magnolia Bark boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.

  1. Magnolia Bark is anti-anxiety. Magnolia Bark is known for its anti-anxiety benefits as an alternative to benzodiazepines.[x]

 Honokiol found in Magnolia Bark has been shown to act on the GABAA receptor subunit α-2 which provides some of its anti-anxiety benefits.[xi]

  1. Magnolia Bark as an antidepressant. Main-stream psychiatric medicine often treats depression using SSRI’s. Which affects serotonin reuptake in the brain. 

Traditional Chinese medicine uses Magnolia Bark to treat depression instead. Studies have demonstrated the honokiol and magnolol found in Magnolia Bark help prevent decreases in serotonin in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum, hypothalamus, and nucleus accumbens.

The combination of honokiol and magnolol also normalize hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) hyperactivity. And induce reductions in platelet activity by upregulating the cAMP pathway.

The results of these studies show how Magnolia Bark provides its potent anti-depressant benefits.[xii]

There is also growing evidence that inflammation in the brain contributes to depression. Here again, Magnolia Bark has been shown to significantly reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines; tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and interferon γ (IFN-γ).

Reducing inflammation in the brain may affect tryptophan metabolism which increases serotonin. Providing another way Magnolia Bark as a naturally effective option for dealing with depression.[xiii]

How things go bad

Chronic stress, anxiety, poor blood flow and free radicals (oxidative stress) can damage your brain. And one of the ways this manifests is memory loss.

It comes as no surprise that people with memory loss experience higher rates of anxiety and depression.

↓ Chronic stress reduces memory capacity

↑ inflammation kills brain cells

↓ Free radicals destroy neurons and synapses

↓ Acetylcholine (ACh) levels decline

Learning and memory decline

Magnolia Bark helps reduce inflammation, restores acetylcholine levels, and supports memory.

Magnolia Bark benefits

magnolia bark sleepMagnolia Bark taken as a nootropic supplement easily crosses the blood-brain barrier helping reduce oxidative stress in the brain and throughout the body.

Magnolia Bark is widely used to elevate mood, decrease pain, and improve immune health.

Magnolia Bark activates cannabinoid receptors in your brain. Cannabinoid receptors include CB1 and CB2.

CB1 receptor activation regulates memory, cognition, and motor control. Relieving pain, vomiting, reducing hyperexcitability in epilepsy, stimulating appetite, and euphoria.

CB2 receptor activation provides pain relief and reduces inflammation.[xiv] 

Magnolia Bark helps reduce stress by suppressing adrenaline and maintaining healthy cortisol levels.

Studies have shown that honokiol works as effectively as the anti-anxiety drug Valium® (diazepam) without the associated side effects.[xv]

And Magnolia Bark extract helps prevent memory loss because of its anti-inflammatory effects in your brain.

How does Magnolia Bark feel?

Neurohackers report that supplementing with Magnolia Bark provides an anti-anxiety effect within minutes of taking it. Some users say it works as well as diazepine.

Most say they feel relaxed and ready to sleep after taking Magnolia Bark. Using it as a sleep supplement helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night.

But dosage is important. And many users say you will not get the benefits of Magnolia Bark if you don’t follow dosage recommendations.

Feelings of anxiety and depression can be reduced significantly with Magnolia Bark daily supplementation.

Most report that Magnolia Bark is a great way to quickly reduce stress.

Magnolia bark dosageMagnolia Bark Clinical Research

Most of the clinical research for Magnolia Bark are animal studies with very few conducted with humans.

Magnolia Bark is anti-anxiety

Magnolia Bark has long been used as an anxiolytic. Most users report a reduction in anxiety when using it as a supplement.

A 2013 review by researchers at Emory University in Atlanta found that the compound honokiol in Magnolia Bark interacts with the GABAA receptor. The same receptor targeted by anti-anxiety drugs like diazepam and without the side effects caused by benzodiazepines.[xvi]

Another study at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine reported that magnolol and honokiol enhanced both pre-synaptic and post-synaptic GABA transmission in hippocampus neurons.

Magnolia Bark modulated all sub-receptors in this group regardless of the α, β, or γ subunit subtype. Suggesting that supplements containing magnolol and/or honokiol would be effective anxiolytics, sedatives and anti-convulsants.

But the researchers also noted side-effects and significant risk of drug interactions could also be expected.[xvii]

Magnolia Bark for sleep

User reviews of Magnolia Bark extract supplements often report using it for sleep.

Studies show Magnolia Bark holds promise for those who have trouble falling and staying asleep.

The compound honokiol significantly shortened the time to fall asleep to non-rapid eye movement (non-REM, NREM) sleep and increased the amount of non-REM sleep in animal studies.

Honokiol increased the number of state transitions from wakefulness to non-REM sleep, and from non-REM sleep to wakefulness.

But honokiol has no effect on either the amount of REM sleep or depth of sleep.

The study concluded that “honokiol promoted NREM sleep by modulating the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor, suggesting potential applications in the treatment of insomnia, especially for patients who experience difficulty in falling and staying asleep.”

Clearly, those who use Magnolia Bark extract for insomnia have the clinical evidence to back up their claims.[xviii]

Magnolia Bark may prevent seizures

A study was conducted in Belgium with the aim of discovering natural compounds that could be further tested for the treatment of epilepsy.

The researchers collected 14 herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to treat epilepsy. Of six extracts that tested positive in an animal model for epilepsy, only Magnolia Bark extract showed antiseizure activity.[xix]

Honokiol has been shown to inhibit repetitive firing by blocking glutamate, NMDA and K+ evoked cationic influx. Both honokiol and magnolol were found to increase seizure thresholds but honokiol appeared to be more potent in animal studies.[xx]

Magnolia bark benefitsMagnolia Bark recommended dosage

Manufacturers of Magnolia Bark extract generally recommend a nootropic dosage of up to 500 mg per day. Effective dosage depends on the strength of the extract.

We do not have access to clinical data stating the maximum recommended daily dosage for Magnolia Bark.

But do NOT exceed the recommended dosage because studies show in excess, Magnolia Bark can be toxic and cause neuronal cell death.[xxi]

Magnolia Bark is fat-soluble and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier.

Because it is fat-soluble, Magnolia Bark must be taken with a healthy fat like unrefined coconut oil or other healthy oil to ensure absorption.

Magnolia Bark side effects

Magnolia Bark is non-toxic and safe for use as a nootropic supplement based on years of recent food safety studies.[xxii]

Magnolia bark cortisolHowever, although rare, side effects can include tremors, dizziness, excessive sleepiness, and muscle weakness.

Do NOT use Magnolia Bark if you are on blood-thinning meds. And discontinue its use at least two weeks prior to surgery.

Avoid using Magnolia Bark if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. One animal study documented honokiol and magnolol blocked calcium-dependent uterine contractions in rats.[xxiii]

Magnolia Bark should NOT be used if you are taking benzodiazepines because studies show this powerful herb significantly increases the sensitivity of GABAA benzo receptors.[xxiv] Combining the drug with Magnolia Bark may result in a benzodiazepine overdose.

Magnolia Bark extract can cause sleepiness, vertigo, and dizziness if you are using muscle relaxants.

Magnolol in Magnolia Bark will stimulate corticosterone secretion which will likely cause problems if you are using steroid medication.

We have reports spanning the last few decades of women developing kidney failure resulting in dialysis after using a Magnolia Bark supplement as part of a weight loss program.

Further investigation showed different alkaloid profiles from those expected from Magnolia Bark. Which likely means something other than pure Magnolia Bark extract was used.[xxv] The lesson here is make sure you are buying a genuine and pure Magnolia Bark supplement.

Type of Magnolia Bark to buy

Magnolia Bark extract is available in capsules, tablets, bags of powder, loose bark tea, and liquid extract.

Magnolia Bark extract is offered in various strengths. Including a certain percentage of honokiol and magnolol which are the two active compounds found in this herb.

Relora® is a proprietary and patented blend of Magnolia Bark extract and Phellondendron amurense bark extract made by Lonza. And licensed for use by dietary supplement manufacturers.

Relora® is supported by 3 peer-reviewed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies demonstrating a 42% improvement in mood states, 18% increase in vigor, 11% overall reduction in stress, and a 20% reduction in depression.[xxvi]

Do your best to choose a Magnolia Bark extract supplement made in a GMP facility with no “other ingredients” other than the capsule. And a testing program in place ensuring quality and purity.

My recommendation for a Magnolia Bark extract supplement is: Thorne Research – Relora Plus.

Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Nootropics Expert Tested and ApprovedMagnolia Bark extract up to 500 mg per day.

I recommend using Magnolia Bark extract as a nootropic supplement.

Your body does not make the compounds honokiol and magnolol found in Magnolia Bark on its own. So, to get its benefits you must take it as a supplement.

Magnolia Bark is especially helpful for those dealing with anxiety and stress. Studies show and users report it as effective for taming anxiety as benzodiazepines. But without the side effects associated with these drugs.

Magnolia Bark is reported to work well for those suffering from insomnia. Taken as a sleep aid, Magnolia Bark extract helps you fall asleep faster, and stay asleep.

Magnolia Bark extract is also helpful for those suffering from Alzheimer’s. It acts as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which increases acetylcholine levels often lacking in the Alzheimer’s brain.

This nootropic herb helps relieve symptoms of depression by maintaining healthy serotonin levels. And reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokines often found elevated in those with depression.

Keep in mind that Magnolia Bark is fat-soluble and requires healthy fats from a meal, or a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil or MCT Oil for absorption.

Look for purity and quality in a supplement. And for Magnolia Bark a good choice if you are new to this nootropic supplement is: Thorne Research – Relora Plus.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may also contain other affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

[i] Koetter, U., Barrett, M., Lacher, S., Abdelrahman, A., & Dolnick, D. “Interactions of Magnolia and Ziziphus extracts with selected central nervous system receptors.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology124(3), 421–425 (source)

[ii] Lee, Y. K., Yuk, D. Y., Kim, T. I., Kim, Y. H., Kim, K. T., Kim, K. H., Lee, B. J., Nam, S. Y., & Hong, J. T. “Protective effect of the ethanol extract of Magnolia officinalis and 4-O-methylhonokiol on scopolamine-induced memory impairment and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity”. Journal of Natural Medicines63(3), 274–282 (source)

[iii] Woodbury, A., Yu, S. P., Wei, L., & García, P. (2013). “Neuro-modulating effects of honokiol: a review.” Frontiers in Neurology, Volume 4, September 2013, page 130. (source)

[iv] Lee, Y. J., Lee, Y. M., Lee, C. K., Jung, J. K., Han, S. B., & Hong, J. T. (2011). “Therapeutic applications of compounds in the Magnolia family.” Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Volume 130, Issue 2, May 2011, pages 157–176. (source)

[v] Koetter, U., Barrett, M., Lacher, S., Abdelrahman, A., & Dolnick, D. “Interactions of Magnolia and Ziziphus extracts with selected central nervous system receptors.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology124(3), 421–425. (source)

[vi] Poivre, M., & Duez, P. “Biological activity and toxicity of the Chinese herb Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E. Wilson (Houpo) and its constituents.” Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B, Volume 18, Issue 3, April 2013, pages 194–214. (source)

[vii] Sarrica, A., Kirika, N., Romeo, M., Salmona, M., & Diomede, L. “Safety and Toxicology of Magnolol and Honokiol.” Planta Medica, Volume 84, Issue 16, 2018, pages 1151–1164. (source)

[viii] Yan, R., Wang, W., Guo, J., Liu, H., Zhang, J., & Yang, B. “Studies on the alkaloids of the bark of Magnolia officinalis: isolation and on-line analysis by HPLC-ESI-MS(n).” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Volume 18, Issue 7, 2013, pages 7739–7750. (source)

[ix] Fried, L. E., & Arbiser, J. L. “Honokiol, a multifunctional antiangiogenic and antitumor agent. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling,” Volume 11, Issue 5, April 2009, pages 1139–1148. (source)

[x] Kuribara, H., Kishi, E., Hattori, N., Okada, M., & Maruyama, Y. (2000). “The anxiolytic effect of two oriental herbal drugs in Japan attributed to honokiol from magnolia bark.” The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology52(11), 1425–1429. (source)

[xi] Fried, L. E., & Arbiser, J. L. (2009). “Honokiol, a multifunctional antiangiogenic and antitumor agent.” Antioxidants & Redox Signaling11(5), 1139–1148. (source)

[xii] Xu, Q., Yi, L. T., Pan, Y., Wang, X., Li, Y. C., Li, J. M., Wang, C. P., & Kong, L. D. (2008). “Antidepressant-like effects of the mixture of honokiol and magnolol from the barks of Magnolia officinalis in stressed rodents.” Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry32(3), 715–725 (source)

[xiii] Zhang, B., Wang, P. P., Hu, K. L., Li, L. N., Yu, X., Lu, Y., & Chang, H. S. “Antidepressant-Like Effect and Mechanism of Action of Honokiol on the Mouse Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Depression Model.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Volume 24, Issue 11, May 2019, page 2035. (source)

[xiv] Chicca, A., Gachet, M. S., Petrucci, V., Schuehly, W., Charles, R. P., & Gertsch, J. “4′-O-methylhonokiol increases levels of 2-arachidonoyl glycerol in mouse brain via selective inhibition of its COX-2-mediated oxygenation.” Journal of Neuroinflammation12, 89 (source)

[xv] Kuribara H., Stavinoha W.B., Maruyama Y. “Behavioural Pharmacological Characteristics of Honokiol, an Anxiolytic Agent Present in Extracts of Magnolia Bark, Evaluated by an Elevated Plus‐maze Test in Mice” Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Volume 50, Issue7 July 1998 Pages 819-826 (source)

[xvi] Woodbury, A., Yu, S. P., Wei, L., & García, P. “Neuro-modulating effects of honokiol: a review.” Frontiers in Neurology4, 130. (source)

[xvii] Alexeev M., Grosenbaugh D.K., Mott D.D., Fisher J.L. “The natural products magnolol and honokiol are positive allosteric modulators of both synaptic and extra-synaptic GABAA receptors” Neuropharmacology Volume 62, Issue 8, June 2012, Pages 2507-2514 (source)

[xviii] Qu, W. M., Yue, X. F., Sun, Y., Fan, K., Chen, C. R., Hou, Y. P., Urade, Y., & Huang, Z. L. “Honokiol promotes non-rapid eye movement sleep via the benzodiazepine site of the GABA(A) receptor in mice.” British Journal of Pharmacology167(3), 587–598. (source)

[xiv] Li, J., Copmans, D., Partoens, M., Hunyadi, B., Luyten, W., & de Witte, P. (2020). Zebrafish-Based Screening of Antiseizure Plants Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Magnolia officinalis Extract and Its Constituents Magnolol and Honokiol Exhibit Potent Anticonvulsant Activity in a Therapy-Resistant Epilepsy Model. ACS chemical neuroscience, Volume 11, Issue 5, February 2020, pages 730–742. (source)

[xx] Lin, Y. R., Chen, H. H., Ko, C. H., & Chan, M. H. “Differential inhibitory effects of honokiol and magnolol on excitatory amino acid-evoked cation signals and NMDA-induced seizures.” Neuropharmacology49(4), 542–550. (source)

[xxi] Woodbury, A., Yu, S. P., Wei, L., & García, P. “Neuro-modulating effects of honokiol: a review.” Frontiers in Neurology4, 130. (source)

[xxii] Sarrica, A., Kirika, N., Romeo, M., Salmona, M., & Diomede, L. “Safety and Toxicology of Magnolol and Honokiol.” Planta Medica84(16), 1151–1164. (source)

[xxiii] Lu, Y. C., Chen, H. H., Ko, C. H., Lin, Y. R., & Chan, M. H. “The mechanism of honokiol-induced and magnolol-induced inhibition on muscle contraction and Ca2+ mobilization in rat uterus.” Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology368(4), 262–269 (source)

[xxiv] Squires, R. F., Ai, J., Witt, M. R., Kahnberg, P., Saederup, E., Sterner, O., & Nielsen, M. “Honokiol and magnolol increase the number of [3H] muscimol binding sites three-fold in rat forebrain membranes in vitro using a filtration assay, by allosterically increasing the affinities of low-affinity sites.” Neurochemical Research24(12), 1593–1602 (source)

[xxv] Vanherweghem, J. L., Depierreux, M., Tielemans, C., Abramowicz, D., Dratwa, M., Jadoul, M., Richard, C., Vandervelde, D., Verbeelen, D., & Vanhaelen-Fastre, R. “Rapidly progressive interstitial renal fibrosis in young women: association with slimming regimen including Chinese herbs.” Lancet (London, England)341(8842), 387–391 (source)

[xxvi] Talbott, S. M., Talbott, J. A., & Pugh, M. “Effect of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense (Relora®) on cortisol and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition10(1), 37 (source)

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Join The Discussion - 107 comments

Krista Quinn
August 14, 2024

Hi David,

I’m interested in taking Magnolia Bark for sleep issues, as well as anxiety and other mood issues that come up in regards to perimenopause. Slightly nervous about the study in Belgium however and I know that there were other supplements included in this study. Also, slightly nervous about brain damage. How long have you been taking Magnolia Bark? I was considering taking 250mg a day, so one Relora capsule along with Passion flower. And what early signs should I look for that would mean I’m having an adverse reaction to it either kidney wise or neurologically? Thank you very much for your time!

    David Tomen
    August 14, 2024

    Krista, read he last two paragraphs in the Side Effects section above. Make sure you get pure supplements from trustworthy companies and who test their product themselves and by a 3rd party testing lab. They should be willing to provide a Certificate of Analysis if you ask for one.

    See at least one of my articles on sleep for safe solutions for sleep. For example, this one: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-sleep/

Petra
April 4, 2024

Dear David,

I’m currently tapering a benzo and my orthomolecular therapist advised a newly developed supplement here in The Netherlands, that only contains Magnolol and nothing else. It should be the only supplement currently available that is safe to use whilst on a benzo.

So it’s not Magnolia Bark but only the Magnolol. Would that be safe to use during my taper?

https://exendo-epigenomics.com/product/magnolol-120-caps/

Kind regards, Petra

    David Tomen
    April 4, 2024

    Petra, both magnolol and honokiol bind to the GABA benzo receptor so when used with a benzo could result in a benzo overdose (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hup.2595).

    I highly recommend NOT combining that supplement with the benzodiazepine you are tapering off of because it could cause major health problems.

      Petra
      April 9, 2024

      Thanks for your feedback, David and for letting me know. I’ll check in with my health therapist about this.

Rose Pell
September 5, 2023

Six years ago, I had a blood clot which showed up 4 months after a hip replacement. Since then I have been advised by doctors not to take anything hormone related. Is Magnolia Bark hormone related? I like to take it to reduce my cortisol.
Thanks for your advice.

    David Tomen
    September 6, 2023

    Rose, Magnolia Bark is not hormone related.

Andrew Richardson
July 12, 2023

so I got Relora at 300mg I started with half think managed to sleep however I want to know if I can take it together with my magnesium glycinate at 600mg before bed that also seemed to help

    David Tomen
    July 14, 2023

    Andrew, you can certainly use magnesium glycinate with Relora. But be careful of the dose 600 mg is little high.

Andrew Richardson
June 27, 2023

Hi David I want to try magnolol and honokiol again but with l-tryptophan at night just want to make sure i can mix the 2 again only like 250MG of l-tryptophan or whatever i get from milk now i remember this is a fat soluble thing however i’m not sure how good my last magnolol and honokiol was is there a difference between magnolol and honokiol do you have a link by any chance to a very good brand of magnolol and honokiol

what dosage should i try for sleep and it it very safe for long term use at low dosage Cheers

    David Tomen
    June 29, 2023

    Andrew, magnolol and honokiol are polyphenols found in Magnolia Bark extract which provide its nootropic benefits. I know of a couple high quality Magnolia Bark extract supplements which will of course contain magnolol and honokiol but not as separate supplements.

      Andrew Richardson
      June 30, 2023

      Okay would you be able to provide a link to a good trusted brand. appreciate it

        David Tomen
        July 2, 2023

        Andrew, Relora is a good patented form of Magnolia Bark: https://geni.us/BQRjT

        Andrew Richardson
        July 3, 2023

        I ordered some thank you, Can I take this long term it wont act like a benzo and cause dependency will it! I want to avoid benzo like the plague for that very reason!

        I got a 300MG one or should I start with half a capsule to see how it works

        David Tomen
        July 8, 2023

        Andrew, natural nootropic supplements such as Magnolia Bark extract do not behave and cause the kind of damage that benzos can cause. You just need to figure out the best dose for you. Starting with a half dose for a couple of days is a good idea. For the long-term keep it under 500 mg per day and you should be fine. But studies show that if used in excess or higher than recommended doses can cause brain damage.

Daniel
June 12, 2023

Could one on zoloft take magnolia bark as needed? If not, can any anxiolytic herbs be used with zoloft?

    David Tomen
    June 12, 2023

    Daniel, scroll back up the the Side Effects section and you’ll see what the studies caution us about. It is not directly contraindicated with Zoloft. But like any nootropic combined with a drug you need to be very careful.

    Each herb has a unique profile and some are contraindicated with specific classes of drug. I highly recommend learning exactly the mechanism of action (pharmacology) of whatever drug you are using (i.e. Wikipedia is a good source and well researched). Then learn exactly the mechanism of action of the herb which you’ll find on Nootropics Expert.

    No one is willing to pay for studies for contraindications with a drug and every herb. So it is up to use to figure it out because of all the potential combinations.

      Daniel
      June 12, 2023

      Thank you David. One thing that isn’t clear to me — are potential interactions expected to happen with occasional usage or only long-term usage? I would like to use magnolia bark occasionally, but not regularly. would you mind sharing your opinion on passion flower with Zoloft? there is a published study that uses passion flower with Zoloft but it’s out of Iran and I’m not sure if that’s reliable or not. I am working through panic disorder, and want to avoid benzodiazepines. passionflower seems promising too but based on warnings I’m confused if its safe.

        David Tomen
        June 16, 2023

        Danial, Magnolia Bark interacts with the adenosine A1 receptor, dopamine transporter, dopamine D5 receptor (antagonist), serotonin receptors 5-HT1B and 5-HT6 (antagonist), GABAA receptors, hippocampus acetylcholine release, and modulates serotonin activity. And is an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor.

        So, theoreticality at least, Zoloft may be contraindicated with any drug that influences dopamine, serotonin, or GABA. Zoloft is a SSRI which means it acts on serotonin. So there could possibly be a problem using the two together.

        But I am not aware of any studies looking at how Zoloft interacts with any natural nootropic supplement. And have not seen the study you mentioned in your comment. Which is why we as users need to do our own research before using any supplement while on a prescription drug.

        I cannot make an intelligent suggestion one way or another on “occasional” use vs daily use of Magnolia Bark with Zoloft because of the lack of studies telling us if it a safe or dangerous combination.

Adam Smith
May 6, 2023

Hi David, my 7 year old has recently began intense sleep anxiety, he isn’t diagnosed ADHD but I was clinically diagnosed as such in the UK, and see many pf the same traits in him. I also went through what he’s going through now, but with little parental knowledge or help it resulted in many years of night terrors, insomnia extremely vivid recurring nightmares.

Is this something which is safe across the age groups, and if not is there a nootropic that is safe and efficacious for a child of that age to take to help reduce the night time anxiety and aid in better sleep.

I want to nip this in the bud before it gets out of hand and am looking for something to use alongside general sleep hygiene and breath work and meditation.

    David Tomen
    May 6, 2023

    Adam, I’m not a doctor so cannot make recommendations for kids for liability reasons. But I here you loud and clear about non-diagnosed ADHD and ADD. That was me for decades.

    Pycnogenol (Maritime Pine Bark Extract) has been studied in kids with ADHD and successfully compared to Ritalin. I suggest checking out my Pine Bark Extract review. Insomnia is a common side effect of ADHD. But it seems to me that taking care of the core ADHD symptoms will help to a certain extent with sleep issues.

    Magnolia Bark extract is a potent supplement. As are many of these natural nootropic supplements. But parents have successfully been using a lot of them for various issues. They just use a much lower dose.

Jonny
March 21, 2023

I am thinking of using Magnolia Bark to manage anxiety/insomnia/depression resulting from benzodiazepine withdrawal. My concern is that MB may downregulate my GABA receptors, setting back my recovery. Is this a problem? For context, I have been off benzodiazepines for over 4 months, but continue to have the above psychological symptoms.

    David Tomen
    March 22, 2023

    Jonny, the active compound called Honokiol found in Magnolia Bark binds to the same benzo receptors that are already desensitized from using benzos. So not a good idea because that could prolong your benzo detox symptoms.

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