I ordered these and they were fresh , unlike LA Herb that took over twenty days to send and they were not fresh.
Hou Po (Magnolia Bark) – Magnolia officinalis
Hou Po (Magnolia officinalis), also known as Magnolia Bark, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been valued for its ability to move Qi, dry dampness, and transform phlegm, helping to restore balance when stagnation and accumulation patterns arise in the body.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Hou Po is commonly included in formulas designed to support digestive movement, resolve fullness, and promote the smooth flow of Qi in the chest and abdomen.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Hou Po bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Learn More About This Herb
Want to explore the traditional classification, channels, and historical use of this herb in greater depth?
Traditional Uses of Hou Po in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hou Po is classified as a Qi Regulating Herb.
Traditionally, it is used to:
• Promote the movement of Qi
• Dry dampness and support fluid metabolism
• Transform phlegm and support respiratory balance
• Reduce feelings of fullness and stagnation
• Support digestive function in the Middle Jiao
In classical herbal theory, Hou Po enters the Lung, Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine channels, where it helps restore balance when Qi stagnation, dampness, and accumulation disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Hou Po is widely used in traditional herbal formulas and practitioner herb packs.
Herbs Often Used With Hou Po
Hou Po is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Zhi Shi (Immature Bitter Orange)
• Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel)
• Ban Xia (Pinellia Rhizome)
• Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger) or Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger)
These herbs are commonly used together to support balanced herbal formulas.
Modern Research on Magnolia officinalis
Modern research has identified important compounds in Magnolia officinalis, including honokiol and magnolol, which have been studied for their antioxidant and physiological regulatory properties.
Scientific interest in this herb has explored potential roles in supporting:
• Digestive function
• Respiratory balance
• Nervous system regulation
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Hou Po
High-quality Hou Po should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Thick, curved bark pieces
• Light to dark brown color with textured surface
• Strong, aromatic fragrance
• Dense, firm texture without brittleness or decay
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly dried to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Magnolia officinalis is native to China and commonly found in southeastern regions such as Fujian, Guangdong, and Jiangxi.
The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the bark.
Traditionally, bark is harvested from mature trees—often after 10 or more years of growth—when its active compounds are most developed. After harvesting:
• Bark is carefully removed
• Cleaned and cut into sections
• Dried in a controlled environment
• Sometimes processed further depending on use
• Fully prepared for herbal application
How Hou Po is Traditionally Used
Hou Po may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Herbal Tea
Use 1–2 grams of the herb and steep in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Decoction
Simmer 3–5 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 20–30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Hou Po is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas, often combined with other herbs to balance its warming and Qi-moving properties.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking prescription medications
• Experiencing dryness or Yin deficiency
• Sensitive to aromatic or warming herbs
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Magnolia officinalis
Common Names: Hou Po, Magnolia Bark, Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex
Flavor: Bitter, Acrid
Temperature: Warm
Channels Entered:
• Lung
• Spleen
• Stomach
• Large Intestine
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of Yin deficiency or dryness.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, martial artists, herbalists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
