Health benefits of Egg Magnolia

Magnolia liliifera, alternatively referred to as Tulip Magnolia or Egg magnolia, is a species within the Magnoliaceae family (Magnolia Family), which comprises between 267 and 297 species. Its natural habitat is the southeastern region of Asia. It is found in Laos, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, New Guinea, and the Indochinese peninsula. Zhejiang, Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Anhui are all provinces in which it is found in China. It is extensively cultivated across various regions of the globe as an ornamental tree. Popular common names for this plant include Red magnolia, Woody-orchid, Lily magnolia, Egg Magnolia, Magnolita, Yellow Magnolia, Mulan magnolia, , Evergreen Magnolia, Tulip magnolia,  Purple magnolia,   Jane magnolia and Bigleaf Magnolia.

Although it is not indigenous to Japan, this plant variety was initially introduced to English-speaking countries from cultivated Japanese origins; as such, it is occasionally referred to as Japanese magnolia. It is currently cultivated as an ornamental in Europe and North America, albeit to a lesser extent than its well-known hybrid. Yulania liliiflora is an equivalent synonym. The initial description of Magnolia liliifera was attributed to Pierre Louis Antoine Cordier, a French botanist, in 1833. The genus Magnolia is designated after Pierre Magnol, a French physician and botanist. The specific epithet liliifera is derived from the Latin words lily and -fer, signifying “bearing” or “producing.” This epithet alludes to the resemblance of the blossoms of Magnolia to those of lilies.

Egg Magnolia Facts

Plant Description

Egg magnolia is a magnificent, ornamental, small to medium-sized deciduous shrub or small tree that develops slowly but is magnificent and ornamental. Typically, it reaches a height of 12 to 60 feet (3.5 to 18.5 m) and has bole diameters of around 30 cm. It has numerous stems, is spherical, and spreads. The plant is indigenous to upland vegetation, forests, and thickets. The plant thrives in a nutrient-rich, moist, well-drained soil mixture. Additionally, the soil ought to be marginally acidic to promote growth. Egg magnolia is a widely utilized ornamental plant in parks and gardens. Additionally, it is employed as a botanical remedy for a range of conditions, including fever, headache, and stomach discomfort. Egg magnolia is highly valued for its voluminous, fragrant, and ostentatious blossoms that occur prior to the emergence of the foliage in early spring.

Buds resemble eggs prior to opening, hence the prevalent name. One of Asia’s most valuable aromatic ornamental trees. A fragrant flower of this small tree or shrub that is highly valued resembles the flower of the Dwarf Magnolia, but its fragrance is considerably stronger. Egg Magnolia and Dwarf Magnolia are distinguished by their egg-shaped blossom buds; however, the flowers of Dwarf Magnolia are white. Medium in stature, egg magnolia is characterized by its velvety bark and fragrant sapwood.

Leaves 

The alternate, simple, narrowly obovate leaves have an obtuse apex and a tapering base; they reach dimensions of 20–50 cm in length and 7.5–15 cm in width. They are smooth or have dispersed filaments along the mid vein abaxially. There are 9–15 pairs of widely spaced side veins on the leaves. The upper surface is lustrous and dark green, whereas the lower surface is covered in brownish hairs. With a distended base, the petiole measures 5-7 cm in length, whereas the stipule scar is shorter than 3/4 the length of the petiole.

Flowers

The solitary, cup-shaped blossoms have a diameter of 10 to 15 centimeters. They are produced in early spring, prior to the emergence of the foliage, on bare branches. The base of the creamy-white petals has a hint of pinkish-purple. Their arrangement consists of two whorls, each containing six to nine petals. The flowers emit a delicate, sweet fragrance that is discernible from a considerable distance.

Fruits

The fruit is a 7-10 cm long, 4-5 cm in diameter, woody, cone-shaped structure that contains numerous brilliant red seeds. The fruits’ seeds have sarcotesta, which are fleshy seed coats ranging in color from pink to orange-brown. Sarcotesta are a form of testa found on plants. The planting season is August through October.

Caring Egg magnolia

Egg magnolia is a relatively resilient plant that does not demand excessive care. It thrives in frigid environments and can withstand frost. However, it requires particular light and soil conditions in order to flourish and produce an abundance of flowers.

Soil

Egg magnolia prefers relatively moist soil. It is not resistant to drought or inundation, so it must be watered only slightly. A nutrient-rich, well-drained soil mixture is optimal for the Egg magnolia plant. Additionally, the soil ought to be marginally acidic to promote growth.

Sunlight

Egg magnolia thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more beautiful flowers and thrives in direct sunlight. Although it can tolerate shade, its flowering will be considerably reduced and its growth rate will be considerably slowed.

Water

Magnolia in watering eggs is relatively straightforward. Due to the plant’s preference for saturated soil, daily watering is required. Prolonged dryness of the topsoil should be avoided. Establish them in the soil to facilitate the drainage of excess water. The most effective method of watering Egg magnolia is at the roots.

Prune

After the flowering season, light pruning is beneficial for preserving the desirable form and promoting new growth. Dead or diseased branches should be removed to promote optimal plant health.

Fertilize

Throughout the growing season, apply a well-balanced fertilizer to your Egg magnolia to promote flowering and overall plant vitality.

Varieties

Several botanists, including Hans Peter Nooteboom and Richard B. Figlar, have reclassified the previously designated varieties of egg magnolia as distinct species, according to data compiled by Rafaël Govaerts, a researcher affiliated with the WCSP at Kew Gardens.

• Magnolia angatensis Blanco
• Magnolia beccarii (Ridl.) ined.
• Magnolia championii Benth.
• Magnolia hodgsonii (Hook.f. & Thom.) 
• Magnolia singapurensis (Ridl.) H.Keng

Health benefits of Egg magnolia

As an aesthetically pleasing tree, egg magnolia is among the most desirable ornamental plants for a garden. The fragrant purple blossoms are certain to attract considerable interest and garner commendation from your neighbors. Furthermore, the plant possesses an abundance of medicinal properties that offer advantageous health effects. The inclusion of these plants in your garden is unquestionably a wise decision given their health benefits.

1. Improves mental health

The anxiolytic properties of egg magnolia may contribute to the maintenance of hormonal equilibrium within the body. Anxiety and panic-inducing stress hormones are diminished and stabilized. It reduces the body’s hormone secretion and exerts an effect on the endocrine system. Dopamine, which is also released, may potentially aid in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders.

2. Improves dental hygiene

Recent research has demonstrated that extracts derived from Egg magnolia may have potential as dental remedies. It can reduce inflammation and hemorrhaging of the gums and alleviate gingivitis.

3. Reduces menstrual cramps

Egg magnolia extracts possess remarkable anti-inflammatory qualities that alleviate muscular tension. This property of the plant has the potential to alleviate menstrual pains.

4. Solves respiratory problems

Magnolia extract was utilized medicinally in ancient China. It was utilized in the formulation of medications for asthma and respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and wheezing.

5. Anti-allergenic properties

Additionally, magnolia is purported to mitigate severe symptoms and prevent allergic reactions. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties alleviate allergic reactions. Using magnolia supplements to treat hay fever, seasonal allergies, or specific allergen sensitivity is possible.

6. Promotes weight loss

Magnolia supplements have frequently been found to suppress appetite, which can facilitate weight loss. Weight loss supplements containing magnolia extracts are extraordinarily effective because they inhibit excess and facilitate adherence to a strict diet.

Different Facts

• In numerous regions across the globe, Magnolia liliifera is extensively cultivated as an ornamental tree.
• Its magnificent and aromatic flowers render it a favored selection for landscaping, parks, and gardens.
• The bark and flower blossoms are utilized in traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma, coughs, and other respiratory issues.
• Additionally, fever, diarrhea, and dysentery can be treated with the bark.
• The egg magnolia is prized for its fragrant, egg-shaped flower that emits a morning fragrance reminiscent of pineapple.
• Herbal remedies comprise of tree parts are employed to treat ailments such as inflammation, anxiety, and digestive disorders.

Different Uses

• Ornamental Use: Egg magnolia is esteemed for the aesthetic qualities it possesses. It is a popular choice for specimen trees in landscapes, gardens, and parks due to the striking tulip-shaped blossoms it produces, which emit a pleasant fragrance. Additionally, the tree’s compact stature and aesthetically pleasing foliage enhance its ornamental allure.
• Aromatic Oil: An essential oil derived from the blossoms of Egg magnolia holds significant value within the fields of aromatherapy and perfumery. As a result of its fragrance and prospective skin benefits, this oil is utilized in numerous cosmetic and therapeutic products, where it is believed to have soothing properties.
• Cultural Significance: Certain geographical areas attribute cultural significance to egg magnolia, which is linked to particular customs and symbolic meanings. The flowers can symbolize virtues such as purity, attractiveness, and the advent of spring.
• Wildlife Habitat: Local wildlife can benefit from the planting of Egg magnolia, which provides shelter and sustenance for birds, bees, and other pollinators. Its flowers contribute to the pollination of neighboring plants and the overall health of the ecosystem by being especially appealing to pollinators.
• Timber: While egg magnolia’s wood is not as frequently employed for construction purposes as that of other magnolia species, it can still be utilized in craft and light construction endeavors. The wood is valued for its workability and texture.
• Educational Use: Educational institutions and botanical gardens may cultivate Egg magnolia for scientific, conservation, and educational purposes. The institution provides an opportunity for both visitors and students to gain knowledge regarding plant diversity, conservation initiatives, and the unique attributes of magnolias.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnolia_liliifera

https://indiabiodiversity.org/species/show/230358

https://en.hortipedia.com/Magnolia_liliifera

https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Egg%20Magnolia.html

https://asianplant.net/Magnoliaceae/Magnolia_liliifera.htm

https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/MAGLF

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