Magnolia Bark: Benefits, Uses & Edible Preparation

Magnolia bark is a bitter and pungent herb that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. The bark contains magnolol and honokiol, two phenolic compounds, that demonstrate antioxidative and pain-relieving properties. An effective stress-reducing remedy, magnolia is used to treat emotional conditions that cause a range of digestive disorders, as well as to reduce pain and inflammation. The bark is made edible for consumption by preparing a decoction.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Magnolia bark
• Measuring glass
• Metal vessel
• 1 cup water

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a knife to peel the bark from the magnolia plant. Dry the peeled bark in a cool and dry place.

• 2

  Weigh 9 g of the bark in a measuring glass, and place the bark in a metal vessel that contains one cup of water.

• 3

  Set the vessel to boil on a gas or electric burner to prepare the decoction.

• 4

  Allow the contents to boil until the bark turns soft and its internal surface changes color to a dark red or brownish gray.

• 5

  Cool the magnolia bark decoction. Discard the magnolia bark pieces and drink the decoction. Always check with a physician before using to make sure this is the right treatment for you and to determine a safe dosage. Magnolia can slow down the central nervous system, which may be too much when combined with other medications or anesthesia.