Magnolia

Magnolia officinalis

Magnolia

Magnolia is a large genus of about 210 species named after botanist Pierre Magnol. This is one of the oldest species of trees having evolved before bees appeared, the flowers developed to encourage pollination by beetles. To avoid damage from pollinating beetles, the carpels of the flowers are extremely tough. Specimens of “Magnolia acuminata” fossils have been found dating to 20 million years ago, and of plants identifiably belonging to the “Magnoliaceae” dating to 95 million years ago. The natural range of Magnolia species is very wide with a center in east and southeast Asia and a secondary center in eastern North America, Southeastern North America the West Indes, and some species in South America.

What is Magnolia Used For?

The bark has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Japanese Traditional Medicine. It is very fragrant and contains large amount of two aromatic compounds called magnolol and honokiol. It was common to find it used to help support healthy digestion. Magnolia’s ‘stimulant’ and ‘tonic’ benefits were included in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia from 1820 through 1894. Much of the research on this plant has centered around these two constituents. Magnolia bark and it’s various constituents have been shown to modulate cortisol production. The bark is commonly used in formulas to support healthy response to stress and calm occasional nervousness as well as to support sleep.