Many people swear by various holistic methods as tools to lower their anxiety levels. From adaptogens to breathwork, these natural treatments vary from the relatively involved to the more simple, like taking a supplement. A Chinese herb touted for its calming and hormone-balancing benefits, magnolia bark may be the next addition you need for your anti-anxiety arsenal.
Healthline reports that this type of tree bark contains polyphenol micronutrients called neolignans; these, along with its high antioxidant count and plethora of mental and physical health benefits, make magnolia bark a powerful treatment for ailments like asthma, anxiety, depression and other inflammatory issues. Psychology Today reports that magnolia bark’s nutrient content works as an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-allergenic agent which can have effects on the entire system.
The two neolignans, namely honokiol and magnolol, are responsible for the bark’s therapeutic benefits, the outlet notes. These compounds work together to calm and soothe the body and mind while acting as a sedative agent. If you’ve been spinning for hours, taking some of this supplement can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Magnolia bark can help fight the consequences of chronic stress
With so many bioactive compounds and antioxidants, magnolia bark boasts a wide array of benefits. Healthline notes that honokiol, one of the main components found in the bark, may spur the release of antioxidant enzymes, thus slowing the aging process within the cells. Plus, studies found that honokiol also reduced inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. It should come as no surprise that this nutritional powerhouse also has exhibited cancer-fighting properties thanks to its high count of polyphenols — nutrients in magnolia bark helped reduce tumor growth in various experiments, the outlet notes.
As for its calming benefits, magnolia bark also impacts GABA, an amino acid responsible for soothing the central nervous system. When you take this supplement, it helps spur the production of this neurotransmitter, resulting in a more relaxed state, Psychology Today reveals. Plus, it works closely with the endocannabinoid system — a network of receptors that regulates everything from pain management to hormone function. Increasing levels of serotonin and dopamine, magnolia bark can treat a lowered mood and lack of energy as well.
There’s a lot going on beneath the tree’s surface. Loaded with antioxidants and brain-benefiting compounds, magnolia bark could help you feel better, faster.
Source: Read Full Article