Magnolia (primarily Magnolia officinalis bark extract) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, mainly for symptoms such as anxiety, gastrointestinal disorders, and as a sedative. In modern research, preliminary scientific studies have begun to investigate its potential role in supporting mental health, including depression. The bark contains bioactive compounds such as honokiol and magnolol, which are believed to exert neuroprotective and anxiolytic effects.

Preclinical studies (mostly in animal models) suggest that magnolia extracts may modulate neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which are implicated in mood regulation. For example, some rodent studies have shown that magnolia extract can reduce depressive-like behaviors, possibly via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms or by enhancing neuroplasticity. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking; the available human data are limited, often combining magnolia with other herbs or nutrients, making it difficult to isolate its effects on depression specifically.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some early-stage evidence supporting the potential use of magnolia for depression, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is low (rated 2 out of 5). More rigorous, large-scale human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this indication.