Honokiol is a polyphenol isolated from the bark of Magnolia officinalis plant and is traditionally used in Eastern herbal remedies for its calming and neuroprotective properties. It has the chemical formula C18H18O2 and a molecular weight of 266.33 g/mol.
Honokiol Extract Benefits and Uses
Chemically, Honokiol is one of the active components of the Magnolia bark extract. It is a structural isomer of magnolol, a neolignan biphenol and a member of the phenolic class of plants. Honokiol has a high bioavailability and is slightly water-soluble.
Honokiol is pleiotropic – meaning it can affect multiple pathways of the body – and is particularly protective of the brain. Honokiol can preserve the activity of mitochondria and sodium-potassium pumps, two processes that are fundamental for the communication of neurons.
Anecdotally, the antioxidant properties of Honokiol offer numerous health benefits. Honokiol may also promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Honokiol extract supplements are also known by a few different names, including:
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- Houpu
- *Magnolia officinalis *
- Kara-koboku
- Indian bark
- 4-O-methylhonokiol
- Chuan Houpu
- 2-(4-hydroxy-3-prop-2-enylphenyl)-4-prop-2-enylphenol
- 5,3-Diallyl-2,4-dihydroxybiphenyl
Scientific Consensus
Honokiol is considered a safe and well tolerated herbal supplement with a low toxicity.
There is not enough data to say whether Honokiol extract is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or if it can be used by children. Honokiol has the potential to interact anaesthesia and other medications, and should be avoided before undergoing a surgery.
