The Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), a large, evergreen tree with broad, glossy leaves and large, fragrant white flowers can grow up to 90 feet.
Through native to the southeastern United States, the Southern Magnolia is now also cultivated through the world for its beauty as an ornamental or street tree.
Multiple parts of Magnolia grandiflora are utilized: the wood is highly valued in the timber industry for its strength and attractive grain, making it ideal for furniture and flooring. The tree’s bark, flowers, and leaves are sometimes used in traditional and herbal medicines. Additionally, its large, fragrant flowers are popular in the perfume industry, and the tree is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The flowers are also pickled and tasty!
Though the more commonly used medicinal Magnolia is another species, the Southern Magnolia also contains interesting chemistry, tradition, and activities. In traditional medicine, various parts of Magnolia grandiflora have been used: the bark used for fever, headache, and rheumatism, while the flowers and leaves have been employed in preparations for respiratory issues and digestive problems. The bark is diaphoretic, stimulant and tonic.
The Native Americans used a decoction of the bark of Southern Magnolia for itching due to ‘prickly heat’ and as a wash for sores.
Through scientific investigation, several activities have been found including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antispasmodic activities. Magnolol, honokiol are found in high quantities in the seed oil and bark. Magnolol, honokiol, and 3,5’-diallyl-2’-dydroxy-4-methoxybiphenyl, also present in this species, exhibit significant antimicrobial activity. Magnolol has been found to play a role in the maintenance of glucocorticoid homeostasis.
An interesting study published in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the potential benefits of magnolol, a bioactive compound found in Magnolia grandiflora. The study demonstrated that magnolol possessed significant neuroprotective effects, suggesting its potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases. Another found that extracts from the bark of Magnolia grandiflora have strong anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions.
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*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
The Southern Beneficial Belle
