Supplement
Honokiol
SaveA lignan from Magnolia bark with anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties demonstrated primarily in preclinical research.
Quick verdict
Strong preclinical profile for anxiety and neuroprotection, but human clinical trials are very limited. Often consumed as part of magnolia bark extract.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Honokiol modulates GABA-A receptors, inhibits NF-kB signaling, and crosses the blood-brain barrier in animal models. It shows potent anxiolytic effects in rodents without sedation at moderate doses. Human data is mostly from magnolia bark extracts containing both honokiol and magnolol.
Benefits
- Anxiolytic activity via GABA-A receptor modulation
- Anti-inflammatory through NF-kB inhibition
- Neuroprotective in preclinical models
Dosage notes
Magnolia bark extract standardized to honokiol/magnolol is typically dosed at 200-400 mg daily. Isolated honokiol doses are not well-established.
Side effects
- Drowsiness at higher doses
- Potential GI upset
- Dizziness
Who should be cautious
May potentiate sedatives and alcohol. Insufficient safety data in pregnancy. May have anticoagulant effects.
What this page cannot tell you
Nearly all mechanistic data is from animal and in vitro studies. Human trials are few and use combination magnolia bark extracts rather than isolated honokiol.
Leaderboard scores
- Anxiety40
- Stress38
- Sleep35
- Mood30
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