June 10, 2002

MAGNOLIA

Latin Name: Magnolia officinalis

Family: MAGNOLIACEAE

Parts Used: Bark, unopened flower buds.

Properties: Analgesic, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antiprotozoan, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Aromatic, Astringent, Bronchial Dilator, Carminative, Decongestant, Diaphoretic, Emmenagogue, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Hypotensive, Stimulant, Stomach Tonic, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Asthma, Bloating, Catarrh, Cigarette Addiction, Colic, Cough, Diarrhea, Dysentery, Flatulence, Malaria, Poor Appetite, Rheumatism, Rhinitis, Salmonella, Sinus Congestion, Sinus Headache, Sinusitis, Stomach Cramps, Typhoid, Ulcers, Vertigo, Vomiting

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

The unopened flowers, not bark, are a decongestant and can be used for nasal congestion, rhinitis, sinus headaches, and sinusitis. The bark is used to break addiction to cigarettes.

Magnolia bark moves stagnant Chi and dries dampness. The flower buds open nasal obstructions by helping the body expel mucus.

Topical Uses: Leukorrhea, Scorpion Stings

Topical Applications: Use a douche made from the bark for leukorrhea. In Central America, Magnolia schiedeana is used topically as a poultice for scorpion stings.

Energetics: Bitter, Pungent, Warm, Dry.

Chemical Constituents: The bark contains magnolol, isomagnolol, essential oil (eudesmol, maschilol, pinene), alkaloids (magnoflorine, salicifoline, magnocurarine), tannin. The unopened flower buds contain essential oil (anethole, camphene, cineol, estragole, eugenol, limonene, pinene, safrole), alkaloids, beta carotene.

Contraindications: Large doses may cause vertigo. Use with caution during pregnancy. Asian Medicine believes it to be incompatible with Astragalus.

Comments: Native to China, the bark of Magnolia is being researched as an agent against amoebic dysentery. The beautiful flowers have been considered a symbol of purity for thousands of years. In ancient times, this herb was favored for increasing longevity, brightening the eyes and making the body feel light.

In general, bark is harvested from Magnolia officinalis, while the unopened flower buds are from Magnolia liliflora. The common name Magnolia also includes the species Magnolia glauca and Magnolia grandiflora.

-- Phil in KS (mac0328@planetkc.com), June 10, 2002

Answers

Can anybody find a good picture of this? I can't seem to find one. I've lived in the southern half of the US all my life, so I'm pretty familiar with this gorgeous tree, and LOVE those magnolia blossums!

I have read that the bark shouldn't be used for children, but I'm not sure why.

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), June 10, 2002.

-- Bren (wayoutfarm@skybest.com), June 10, 2002.

Thanks, Bren!

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), June 10, 2002.