Magnolia (Magnolia officinalis) bark contains an active ingredient called honokiol which may possess anxiolytic effects. Phellodendron (Phellodendron amurense) bark contains another phytochemical called berberine that may also possess anxiolytic effects. Researchers have investigated the effects of magnolia and phellodendron for their ability to alter the mood state of healthy humans. In one study researchers administered a combination of magnolia and phellodendron (500 mg per day, containing 1.5% honokiol and 0.1% berberine) to a group of athletes for 4 weeks. The results of the study showed that the supplement was significantly able to reduce stress (−11%), tension (−13%), depression (−20%), anger (−42%), fatigue (−31%), and confusion (−27%) while at the same time increase mood (+11%) and vigor (+18%). Magnolia and phellodendron may therefore be useful herbal treatments for mildly stressed individuals and may have a particular application to athletes undergoing training.
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