Magnolia bark

In the American South, magnolias are undeniably a symbol of culture, strength, and beauty. The magnolia family has been found in the fossil record long before humans. In fact, magnolias were present even before honeybees. Magnolia trees are mainly distributed in East and Southeast Asia and are generally very attractive thanks to their fragrant and dazzling flowers.

The bark and/or seed cones of the Magnolia spp., particularly M. officinalis has many uses in traditional herbal medicines in Korea, China and Japan. Bioactive ingredients such as magnolol, honokiol, 4-O-methylhonokiol and obovatol have received great attention.

It helps reduce the excessive cortisol levels that interfere with sleep quality, particularly for those with stress-induced insomnia who wake with a start in the wee hours of the morning, mind spinning, unable to fall back to sleep.

Studies suggest that magnolia bark tea can activate cannabinoid receptors in the body, enhancing magnolia’s soothing effect on sleep issues and anxiety. This tea is excellent hot or cold, especially before bed.

Magnolia bark may also act as an effective anti-inflammatory, and support weight loss, blood sugar control, and brain health. It’s been used to ease anxiety, reduce gingivitis, treat menstrual cramps, and improve respiratory health.

In addition, magnolia-based products have been used for smoking cessation therapy and as aphrodisiacs, anti-depressants, and sedatives due to their hypothesized cannabimimetic and GABA-ergic-like effects.
Magnolia bark

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)

Cashew is probably indigenous of the savannas of Columbia, Venezuela and the Guiana. The plant was introduced into South America west of the Andes, Central America, West Indies and then to the East by early travelers.

Though many parts of the plant are used medicinally, cashew nut is chiefly a food - after removal of its toxic lining.

Cashews are always shelled and roasted before selling. Unsalted cashews are loaded with monounsaturated fats, good for protecting the heart.

The leaves are used in Indian and African herbal medicine for toothache and gum problems, and in West Africa for malaria. Cashew nut rind juice has been used to stimulate indolent ulcers, as well as to remove warts and corns.

The bark is used in Ayurvedic medicine to detoxify snake bite. The roots are purgative. The oil between the outer and inner shells of the nut is caustic and causes an inflammatory reaction even in small doses.
Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)