Supplement · Sleep, stress & mood

Magnolia bark

Also known as: Honokiol, Magnolol

A traditional stress and sleep herb (honokiol/magnolol) with mostly early evidence.

Evidence
Silver· human data
Sources cited
1
Last reviewed
22 July 2026

Magnolia bark contains honokiol and magnolol, compounds studied for calming, anti-stress and sleep effects, often appearing in cortisol- and sleep-support blends.

Much of the mechanistic work is preclinical, with limited human trials: some in combination products for menopausal sleep and stress. It is a plausible but under-evidenced option; effects and product quality vary.

Sources