Magnolia grandiflora.

Magnolia grandiflora: description, cultivation and medicinal properties

Magnolia grandiflora (lat. Magnolia grandiflora) is an evergreen tree belonging to the magnolia family. This plant can reach a height of up to 45 meters, and its crown has a dense and pyramidal shape. The bark of Magnolia grandiflora is gray.

The leaves of Magnolia grandiflora are short-petiolate, entire, oblong-ovate. This tree blooms from May to September, and the flowers of Magnolia grandiflora are single, fragrant, milky white and located on thick stalks.

The fruit of Magnolia grandiflora is an ovoid spiral leaflet collected in a cone-shaped formation. The seeds are large, black, hang on thin threads and ripen in October - November.

Magnolia grandiflora is widespread as an ornamental plant on the southern coast of Crimea, the Black Sea coast, the Caucasus, Transcaucasia and Central Asia. This plant prefers fertile soils devoid of lime. Magnolia grandiflora is characterized by high winter hardiness and is found in mixed and coniferous-deciduous forests.

Magnolia grandiflora is propagated using seeds, but they quickly lose their viability, so immediately after harvesting they must be stratified. Planting from cuttings gives good results only in conditions of high humidity. For landscaping recreational areas, 3-4 year old seedlings are usually used.

Magnolia grandiflora leaves are used in medicine as a medicinal raw material. They are collected during the flowering period from those parts of the plant that are subject to decorative cutting. The leaves are dried in the shade, laid out in a layer of no more than 10 cm and periodically turning over, or in dryers on mesh racks at a temperature of 45–50°C. The raw material should consist of whole green or brownish leaves, be odorless and have a bitter taste. Store in bags or closed containers in a dry, well-ventilated area for no more than 4 years.

Magnolia grandiflora leaves contain essential oil, rutin, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides and salts of potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron. Interestingly, the plant is able to accumulate selenium, which is an important trace element for the human body.

Alcohol extracts from Magnolia grandiflora are used in the early stages of hypertension. They reduce heartbeat, relieve pain in the heart area and improve well-being. To prepare the tincture, 10 g of raw material is poured into 100 g of 70% alcohol and left for 10-15 days in a warm place, shaking occasionally. Take 20-30 drops 3 times a day with meals. The course of treatment lasts 3-4 weeks under blood pressure control.

Essential oil obtained from the flowers and leaves of Magnolia grandiflora is used to strengthen hair. It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it can be used in cosmetology.

But, despite the many beneficial properties of magnolia grandiflora, you should remember that this plant is poisonous. A bouquet of Magnolia grandiflora flowers can cause headaches, dizziness and a feeling of weakness. When the room is ventilated, these symptoms quickly disappear.

In conclusion, Magnolia grandiflora is a beautiful and useful plant that is used in medicine and cosmetology. However, you should consult a physician or qualified professional before using any parts of the plant.