PRIMARY FUNCTION
Natural calming agent for stress relief, anxiety reduction, and cortisol management.
HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH
Magnolia officinalis, a key component of the proprietary blend RELORA®, is derived from the bark of the magnolia tree. It is known for its anxiolytic and stress-reducing properties. Combined with *Phellodendron amurense*, RELORA® enhances relaxation, moderates stress-related behaviors, and supports healthy cortisol levels. Magnolia bark contains bioactive compounds like honokiol, which interacts with GABA receptors in the brain to promote calmness without causing sedation. This makes it particularly beneficial for pets experiencing chronic stress or anxiety.
FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW
The active compounds in *Magnolia officinalis*, such as honokiol and magnolol, bind to GABA receptors in the brain, reducing excitability in the central nervous system. These compounds also help regulate cortisol production, which is often elevated during periods of stress. RELORA®, standardized to honokiol and berberine (from *Phellodendron*), provides synergistic effects that enhance its calming properties while supporting overall mood balance in pets.
COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
- Dogs
- Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
- Anxiety Relief: Reduces acute and chronic stress responses.
- Cortisol Regulation: Helps maintain healthy cortisol levels during stress.
- Nervous System Support: Promotes relaxation without sedation.
- Mood Enhancement: Improves emotional balance and reduces tension.
Veterinary Use Cases
- Managing separation anxiety or noise phobias in dogs.
- Supporting calmness during veterinary visits or travel.
- Reducing stress-related behaviors in cats, such as excessive grooming or vocalization.
- Promoting relaxation in pets with chronic anxiety or hyperactivity.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES
RELORA® is generally safe when used at appropriate doses. However, it should be used cautiously in pets with low blood pressure or those taking sedatives or other medications affecting the central nervous system. Rare side effects include mild digestive upset or drowsiness. Always consult your veterinarian before use.
INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS
RELORA® is a proprietary blend of *Magnolia officinalis* and *Phellodendron amurense* bark extracts standardized to honokiol and berberine content. The ingredients are rigorously tested for purity and potency to ensure consistent efficacy and safety for pets.
RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
- Anxiolytic Effects on Animals: Studies demonstrate that honokiol from magnolia bark has comparable anxiolytic activity to diazepam but without sedative side effects, making it effective for managing stress in animals. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3750820/
- Stress Reduction in Dogs and Cats: Clinical studies suggest that supplements containing *Magnolia officinalis* and *Phellodendron amurense* extracts reduce signs of anxiety in pets exposed to loud noises or other stressors. URL: https://fabclinicians.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/OVERVIEW-OF-BEHAVIOUR-SUPPLEMENTS-FOR-DOGS-AND-CATS.pdf
- Nervous System Support for Pets: Research highlights RELORA®’s ability to moderate occasional stress and promote relaxation through its interaction with GABA receptors. URL: https://ivcjournal.com/calming-ingredients-for-anxious-dogs-and-cats/
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS
Historically, *Magnolia officinalis* has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its calming properties and ability to support gastrointestinal health. Modern veterinary applications have adapted these uses to address stress-related behaviors and promote relaxation in pets.
DISCLAIMER
This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.
