Magnolol is a bioactive compound extracted from the bark of Magnolia officinalis, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. In recent years, there has been growing scientific interest in magnolol for its potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. Preclinical studies, primarily in animal models, indicate that magnolol exhibits anxiolytic properties, likely mediated through modulation of the GABAergic system, which is the same neurotransmitter system targeted by many conventional anxiolytic drugs such as benzodiazepines. For example, studies have shown that magnolol can enhance GABA-induced currents and may interact with GABA_A receptors, increasing inhibitory neurotransmission and producing calming effects in rodents.

Additionally, magnolol displays anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which may indirectly support mental health. However, robust clinical data in humans are lacking. Most evidence comes from animal research and in vitro studies; only a few small-scale human studies or anecdotal reports exist. Therefore, while there is scientific plausibility and preliminary preclinical evidence supporting magnolol’s use for anxiety, more high-quality clinical trials are necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. As such, the evidence rating remains low to moderate (2 out of 5).