Home/Ingredients/Magnolia Bark (Honokiol)
ADAPTOGENS

Magnolia Bark (Honokiol)

Stress · sleep · cortisol

MODERATE EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
QUICK ANSWER

Magnolia Bark: Stress · sleep · cortisol. A traditional Chinese medicine herb with GABA-modulating effects. Calms the nervous system and lowers evening cortisol. Standard dose 200 mg, taken in the evening, about $28/month. Evidence rating: moderate evidence.

What is Magnolia Bark?

Magnolia bark has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years to relieve stress and support sleep. Its two primary active compounds, honokiol and magnolol, modulate GABA-A receptors (the same target as benzodiazepines but with a much milder effect), suppress evening cortisol, and exert antioxidant action. Clinical trials show reductions in perceived stress, transient cortisol, and improvements in sleep quality in adults with mild anxiety. Standard dose is 200-400 mg of extract standardized to 1-2% honokiol per day, in the evening.

WHY IT MATTERS

A traditional Chinese medicine herb with GABA-modulating effects. Calms the nervous system and lowers evening cortisol.

Where to buy

Econugenics HonoPure Honokiol 250mg
RECOMMENDED
Life Extension, Magnolia Bark
200 mg · Evening · ~$28/month

suppdoc.io is an affiliate. Links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

Best for your goal

Interactions

Other adaptogens

Ashwagandha KSM-66
Stress · cortisol · sleep onset
Rhodiola Rosea
Energy · stress resilience · fatigue
Saffron Extract (Affron)
Mood · mild low mood · PMS
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Stress adaptation · cortisol · immune

Common questions

What is Magnolia Bark?
Magnolia bark has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years to relieve stress and support sleep. Its two primary active compounds, honokiol and magnolol, modulate GABA-A receptors (the same target as benzodiazepines but with a much milder effect), suppress evening cortisol, and exert antioxidant action. Clinical trials show reductions in perceived stress, transient cortisol, and improvements in sleep quality in adults with mild anxiety. Standard dose is 200-400 mg of extract standardized to 1-2% honokiol per day, in the evening.
What is Magnolia Bark used for?
Stress · sleep · cortisol. A traditional Chinese medicine herb with GABA-modulating effects. Calms the nervous system and lowers evening cortisol.
What is the standard dose of Magnolia Bark?
200 mg, typically taken in the evening. Approximate cost is $28 per month.
How strong is the evidence for Magnolia Bark?
Moderate evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

Not sure if Magnolia Bark is right for you?

Take our quiz. We'll compose a personalised stack that fits your goals, body, and budget, in minutes.

Take the quiz →