Dr. Mao's Herb Corner

Dr. Mao’s Herb Corner

The weather is warming, the snow is thawing, and a whiff of spring is in the air. Are you excited about getting outdoors and into nature? For some, spring is the beginning of hay fever or allergy season, so this month I am featuring a potent Chinese herb that has long been used in traditional medicine to combat allergies along with a few other surprising benefits.

Magnolia

I grew up in awe of large and beautiful magnolia flowers. The pussy willow-like flower buds along with the bark of the trunk are used in Chinese medicine for sinus and respiratory conditions and as well as digestive problems. Researchers have discovered two potent compounds in magnolia—honokiol and magnolol that contain anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties and protect against acute lung injury. In addition, the compounds activate immune function and inhibit the proliferation of streptococcus and other bacteria. Magnolia extracts are also powerful anti-oxidants that are up to 1000 times more potent than vitamin E; they slow down aging and are useful in cancer prevention. Magnolia is one of the main ingredients in our Allergy Tamer formula so with a little help from magnolia buds and bark, not only can you enjoy the great outdoors, you will also be able to stop and smell the roses.