Evidence supporting the use of: Relora® (proprietary)
For the body system: Cortisol

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Relora® is a proprietary blend of extracts from the bark of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense. It is marketed as a natural supplement to support healthy cortisol levels and help manage stress. The scientific rationale primarily comes from small-scale clinical studies and animal research. Several randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials suggest that Relora® supplementation may reduce salivary cortisol levels and perceived stress in adults experiencing mild to moderate psychological stress. For example, a 2006 study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Relora® significantly reduced cortisol exposure and improved mood state compared to placebo. Another small trial published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine (2013) reported similar findings, with reductions in stress and improvements in mood scores.

However, the evidence base remains limited due to small sample sizes, short durations, and a lack of large, independent confirmatory studies. The mechanism is proposed to involve modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, but this is not fully elucidated. While traditional uses of Magnolia and Phellodendron bark exist in Chinese medicine (primarily for digestive and inflammatory conditions), the specific blend and its application to cortisol modulation is a recent, scientifically-driven development. Therefore, while preliminary scientific validation supports its use for stress and cortisol regulation, the strength of the evidence is moderate at best.

More about relora® (proprietary)
More about Cortisol