Flor de magnolia

厚朴花

(化湿)

Flor de magnolia

-Flor de Magnolia officinalis

-厚朴花 Hòu Pò Huā
-Magnolia Flower

Other Names
Hou Po Flower

English Name
Flos Magnoliae Officinalis

Origin
This medicinal material is obtained from the dried flower buds of Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et Wils. or Magnolia officinalis var. biloba Rehd. et Wils., belonging to the family Magnoliaceae. The buds are harvested in early spring before blooming, lightly steamed, and then sun-dried or dried at low temperature.

Morphological Characteristics
The flower buds are elongated and conical, measuring 4–7 cm in length and 1.5–2.5 cm in diameter at the base. The surface is reddish-brown to dark brown. The perianth consists of about twelve fleshy segments; the outer ones are oblong-obovate, and the inner ones are spoon-shaped. Numerous stamens are present, with pale yellow anthers. The carpels are numerous and spirally arranged on a conical receptacle. The peduncle is 0.5–2 cm long and covered with grayish-yellow hairs. The texture is brittle, and the aroma is fragrant with a mild taste.

Storage
Store in a dry, well-ventilated place to prevent mold and insect damage.

Identification
The powdered material is reddish-brown. Epidermal cells of the perianth are polygonal or oval with dense wart-like projections. Numerous stone cells are present, with thick walls. Oil cells are oval and contain yellow-brown oily substances. Pollen grains are elliptical with reticulate ornamentation.
In thin-layer chromatography, characteristic spots corresponding to magnolol and honokiol appear when compared with reference standards.

Meridian Tropism
Enters the Spleen and Stomach meridians.

Nature and Flavor
Bitter in taste and warm in nature.

Functions and Indications
Regulates qi, transforms dampness, and relieves fullness. It is used for abdominal distension, poor appetite, and discomfort caused by dampness accumulation.

Dosage and Administration
3–9 g, taken as a decoction.

Reference
Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China