Magnolia is the common name for an entire genus of trees, although the most common example of these is Magnolia officinalis (Magnolia-bark). The Magnolia tree is native to China and is renowned for its beautiful, fragrant flowers. An extract from the bark of these trees is known as Magnolia bark extract (MBE), or Hou po in traditional Chinese medicine, where it has been used for centuries.

MBE contains magnolol and honokiol, two compounds shown to have anti-anxiety properties, as well as the ability to reduce allergic reactions and asthma. It was also traditionally used for problems with digestion and the symptoms of the common cold.

Cancer Treatment
MBE has been the topic of a large number of cancer research studies in the last 5 years. Recent studies have shown magnolia bark extract is anti-angiogenic, meaning that it prevents the growth of new blood vessels, thus preventing growing tumours from diverting the blood supply and appropriating more resources for growth. It has also been shown to prevent the growth of skin cancer cells in a test tube. Research has also established that MBE prevents metastasis of human prostate carcinoma cells and induces their apoptosis ("cell suicide"). Some more recent studies have also shown that MBE is cytotoxic against a number of different cancer cell lines in a test tube. All of the current results are from test tube or murine (mouse) studies, so much more research is required before these results can be extended to humans, but it is an exciting line of thinking.

Weight Loss
There is a proprietary combination product from Next Pharmaceuticals called Relora that contains both Magnolia and an extract from Phellodendron amurense. Relora is effective in reducing high cortisol (stress-hormones) levels, and can act as an anxiolytic: reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness. Interestingly, a 2006 study found that this formula helped healthy, overweight, premenopausal women (20-50 years of age) reduce their stress-associated eating. They had lower levels of cortisol at the end of the day, felt more able to manage their stress, and gained significantly less weight than the control group during the study. For more information on Relora, please click here.

Oral and Dental Health
MBE been found to inhibit many of the bacteria responsible for the cavities formed in teeth ("dental caries") as well as periodontal disease. A 2011 study found that chewing magnolia bark extract in a chewing gum base over the span of one month had a number of beneficial effects on oral health, including a reduction in salivary bacteria, particularly the species that cause bad breath. Thus MBE can reduce the risk of cavities and gingivitis when chewed. A study performed in 2000 showed that Magnolia has antifungal activity as well.

Bone Health
Honokiol, one of the major Magnolia constituents, has been shown to promote bone growth, and mineralization. This means that MBE can have positive effects on skeletal strength and bone density.

How can I get MBE?
Magnolia bark extract can be found in a number of different supplements on its own or in combination with other herbs, as is the case in the proprietary formula named Relora. It can also be found in natural chewing gum, and in other oral health products. There is no established dose for the use of MBE. When using Relora, the recommended dosage is 250mg three times daily (a total of 750mg). When taking other combinations, it would be best to follow the manufacturer's instructions.