Magnolia extract 80% | Magnolia officinalis

Magnolia extract 80% | Magnolia officinalis

Properties: This popular plant with a very graceful name has a number of properties thanks to which it has a beneficial effect on the functioning of our body. For centuries, it has been used as a natural remedy for various problems related to the digestive system. This is by no means the only area of ​​magnolia’s activity. It turns out that it also has a beneficial effect on the nervous system functioning.

The substances contained in the bark of this valuable plant support the secretion of GABA – the main neurotransmitter that is responsible for how we deal with stress. GABA also helps us to “calm down” unnecessary emotions. Magnolia therefore makes it easier to relax after a hard and stressful day. Sometimes our body simply demands a moment of rest and peace. Magnolia extract is worth consuming especially when it is difficult for us to cope with strong emotions, or we need rest.

What is more, magnolia supports the immune system as it helps to fight certain pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, it prevents the development of chronic inflammation that can lead to more serious diseases. It also increases the effectiveness of the immune reaction as it supports the specific cells responsible for our immunity.

GABA is not the only neurotransmitter whose action is improved by magnolia. This herb has a positive effect on acetylcholine and serotonin receptors. It facilitates the release of acetylcholine in the brain which improves concentration and cognitive processes. In addition, higher levels of acetylcholine help to assimilate new information It also enhances our memory capabilities. In turn, the increased activity of serotonin has a positive effect on our mood. It makes it easier for us to maintain our well-being.

GABA, acetylcholine and serotonin are extremely important to our brain. Their proper levels are necessary for our mental and physical well-being. It is therefore worth using magnolia extract, because in this way we primarily take care of our mind.

Occurrence: Magnolia officinalis is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows up to 15-20 meters high. It belongs to the Magnoliaceae family. It is very rare in the wild, found mainly in the Chinese provinces of Hubei and Sichuan, where it grows in forests at an altitude of 2000-2500 meters above sea level. The plant is characterized by its beautiful, large flowers that sprinkle during the flowering period. The bark of magnolia is usually the main raw material.

In the traditional medicine of the Far East, magnolia has been used for over 2,000 years mainly as a remedy for digestive and respiratory disorders (pharyngitis, dyspnoea). Powdered magnolia bark is often found in traditional herbal blends called “Chai Po Tang” and “Banxia Hou Po Tang”. The first botanical description of the plant appeared in the book “The Naturalist in West China” by Ernest Henry Wilson, published in 1913. This renowned British collector and discoverer of plants brought magnolia to Europe at the beginning of the 20th century.

Biochemistry: The substances to which the bark of Magnolia Officinalis owes its properties are neolignans: magnolol and honokiol. Chemically, they belong to polyphenols and are two unique compounds, as they occur in species of the genus Magnolia. Apart from that, bark of magnolia also contains: biphenols (magnoloside A, 4-O-methylhonokiol), alkaloids, oils and glycosides.

Fun fact: The species name “Magnolia” comes from the name of Pierre Magnol, a French botanist living at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1703 Charles Plumier (also a French botanist) gave this name to a tree from the island of Martinique. Plumier thus honored Pierre Magnol who was the first one to introduce the concept of the plant family.