Evidence supporting the use of: Magnolia
For the body system: GABA

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Magnolia bark (Magnolia officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances. Modern research has identified active compounds in magnolia, such as honokiol and magnolol, that appear to modulate the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system in the brain. Preclinical studies (primarily in vitro and animal models) demonstrate that these compounds can bind to GABAA receptors, enhancing GABAergic neurotransmission, which is associated with calming and anxiolytic effects. Some small-scale human studies and open-label trials have found that magnolia bark extracts may reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve sleep quality, possibly through GABA receptor modulation.

However, robust, large-scale clinical trials in humans are limited, and much of the evidence remains preclinical. The mechanism—positive modulation of GABAA receptors—is plausible and supported by laboratory findings, but further research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety in humans. Therefore, the use of magnolia to support the GABA system is justified by emerging scientific evidence, but the overall quality and quantity of clinical data warrant a moderate evidence rating.

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