# Relora (Magnolia officinalis, Phellodendron amurense)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/relora
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-30
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Magnolia officinalis bark extract, Phellodendron amurense bark extract, Hou Po, Huang Bai, Magnolia bark, Amur cork tree bark, Honokiol-magnolol complex, TCM stress blend, Magnolia-Phellodendron extract, Cortisol management blend

## Overview

Relora is a standardized extract combining Magnolia officinalis bark and Phellodendron amurense bark, containing honokiol and berberine as key bioactive compounds. These compounds modulate the [HPA axis](/ingredients/condition/stress) and GABA receptors to reduce cortisol production and promote relaxation without sedation.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces stress and anxiety scores by 18-20% based on Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (moderate evidence from RCT, n=56)
• Lowers salivary cortisol by 18% and serum cortisol by 15% versus placebo (moderate evidence from RCT, n=56)
• Improves [sleep quality](/ingredients/condition/sleep) and mood parameters (moderate evidence from RCT, n=56)
• May reduce late-night eating and support modest weight control (preliminary evidence from small RCT, n=50)
• Modulates [stress response](/ingredients/condition/stress) through GABA enhancement and glutamate inhibition (mechanistic studies)

## Mechanism of Action

Relora's primary compounds honokiol and magnolol act as positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. These compounds also inhibit cortisol synthesis by downregulating [HPA axis](/ingredients/condition/stress) activity at the hypothalamic and adrenal levels. Berberine from Phellodendron contributes additional anxiolytic effects through serotonin and [dopamine pathway](/ingredients/condition/mood) modulation.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial (n=56) demonstrated that Relora 250mg twice daily reduced Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale scores by 18-20% compared to placebo over 4 weeks. The same study showed significant [cortisol reduction](/ingredients/condition/stress)s of 18% in salivary measurements and 15% in serum levels. Additional studies support improvements in [sleep quality](/ingredients/condition/sleep) and mood parameters, though the evidence base remains moderate with limited long-term data. Most clinical trials have been small-scale with follow-up periods under 8 weeks.

## Nutritional Profile

Relora is a proprietary blend of two plant bark extracts — Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense — standardized for specific bioactive compounds rather than traditional macronutrients. Typical commercial dose is 250–500 mg per serving. Key bioactive compounds include: Honokiol (Magnolia officinalis bark) at approximately 1–5% concentration by weight in standardized extracts, exhibiting anxiolytic and GABAergic activity; Magnolol (Magnolia officinalis bark) at approximately 1–5% concentration, contributing anti-anxiety and [cortisol](/ingredients/condition/stress)-modulating effects — honokiol and magnolol together typically comprise 2–10% of standardized Magnolia extract. Berberine (Phellodendron amurense bark) present at low concentrations in Relora formulation (~0.1–1%), lower than isolated berberine supplements; Phellodendrine and Jatrorrhizine are additional isoquinoline alkaloids from Phellodendron contributing to adrenal modulation. Macronutrient content is negligible — essentially 0g protein, 0g fat, 0g carbohydrates per standard dose. No meaningful vitamin or mineral content. Fiber content is trace/negligible. Bioavailability notes: Honokiol demonstrates good oral bioavailability with lipophilic characteristics, enhanced by fat co-ingestion; peak plasma levels reached within 1–2 hours. Berberine in this formulation has limited bioavailability (~5%) due to P-glycoprotein efflux, though this is less clinically relevant given the low concentrations present in Relora specifically. The patented extraction process is designed to retain the cortisol-modulating synergy between both plant components.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses: 250 mg three times daily (750 mg total/day) for stress and anxiety management, or 750-1125 mg/day for weight control support. All studies used capsules of the branded extract blend. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Relora is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects including drowsiness, headache, and occasional digestive upset reported in less than 10% of users. The berberine component may interact with [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) medications and CYP3A4 substrates, requiring monitoring in diabetic patients. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established, so use should be avoided during these periods. Potential additive effects may occur with other CNS depressants including benzodiazepines and sleep medications.

## Scientific Research

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial (n=56, PMID: 18426577) found Relora (750 mg/day for 6 weeks) significantly reduced stress scores, [cortisol levels](/ingredients/condition/stress), and improved mood. Another RCT (n=50) showed modest benefits for weight control and eating behaviors at 750-1125 mg/day, though evidence remains limited to small trials without meta-analyses.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Magnolia officinalis bark (Hou Po) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2000 years to treat anxiety and digestive issues through qi regulation. Phellodendron amurense bark (Huang Bai) has been a TCM staple for 1000+ years for heat-clearing and treating infections, combining traditional herbal pairings for modern stress applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Alpha-Lactalbumin, GABA

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much Relora should I take for stress?

Clinical studies used 250mg twice daily (500mg total) taken with meals. This dosage reduced cortisol levels by 15-18% and anxiety scores by 20% in controlled trials. Most benefits were observed within 2-4 weeks of consistent use.

### Does Relora make you sleepy during the day?

Relora promotes relaxation without significant sedation, unlike traditional sleep aids. While some users report mild drowsiness initially, studies show it improves sleep quality at night without daytime impairment. The GABA receptor modulation is selective and doesn't cause pronounced sedative effects.

### Can I take Relora with other stress supplements?

Relora can generally be combined with adaptogens like ashwagandha or L-theanine, but avoid combining with other GABA-enhancing supplements. Monitor for excessive relaxation effects and consult a healthcare provider if taking multiple stress-management compounds simultaneously.

### How long does it take for Relora to work?

Initial relaxation effects may be felt within hours, but significant cortisol reduction and anxiety improvements typically occur after 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Clinical studies measuring cortisol changes used 4-week protocols, with peak benefits observed at this timeframe.

### Is Relora safe for long-term use?

Current clinical data only supports safety for up to 8 weeks of continuous use. Long-term safety studies beyond this period are lacking, so periodic breaks or professional monitoring may be advisable for extended use. No serious adverse effects have been reported in available studies.

### What is the difference between Relora and other cortisol-reducing supplements?

Relora is a standardized blend of two specific plant extracts (Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense) that has clinical evidence showing 15-18% reductions in cortisol levels and anxiety scores. Unlike single-ingredient supplements, Relora's dual-extract formula targets multiple pathways simultaneously, with its efficacy demonstrated in peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials rather than preliminary research alone. Other cortisol supplements may use different ingredients like phosphatidylserine or ashwagandha, which have different evidence profiles and mechanisms of action.

### Is Relora safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical data on Relora's safety during pregnancy and lactation, so it is generally recommended to avoid use during these periods unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. The ingredient has not been formally studied in pregnant or nursing populations, and safety cannot be assumed based on its traditional use in herbal medicine alone. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their physician before supplementing with Relora.

### Does Relora interact with anxiety or depression medications?

Relora may have additive effects when combined with prescription anxiolytics or antidepressants due to its mechanism of action on stress hormones and mood parameters, which warrants medical supervision. While no serious drug interactions have been formally documented, the combination could potentially increase sedation or alter medication efficacy. Anyone taking psychiatric medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting Relora to ensure safe concurrent use.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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