Indication: Stress

Source: Nutr J, April 21, 2008;7:11.

Research: This study measured the effects of a proprietary blend of extracts of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense (Relora) on anxiety, stress and sleep in healthy premenopausal women. This randomized, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted with healthy, overweight (BMI 25 to 34.9), premenopausal female adults, between the ages of 20 and 50 years, who typically eat more in response to stressful situations and score above the national mean for women on self-reporting anxiety. Subjects took either Relora (250 mg capsules) or an identical placebo three times daily for 6 weeks.

Results: The intent-to-treat population consisted of 40 subjects, with 26 participants completing the study. There were no significant adverse events. Relora was effective, in comparison to placebo, in reducing temporary, transitory anxiety as measured by the Spielberger STATE anxiety questionnaire. It was not effective, however, in reducing long-standing feelings of anxiety or depression as measured using the Spielberger TRAIT questionnaire. Other assessments conducted in this study, including salivary cortisol and amylase levels, ap�petite, body morphology and sleep quality/latency, were not significantly changed by Relora in comparison to placebo. Investigators believe this pilot study indicates that Relora may offer some relief for premenopausal women experiencing mild transitory anxiety.