herbs - Hops (Humulus lupulus)

What is it?

The Hops plant is native to Europe, Asia and North America. This climbing plant is well known for its use in the brewing industry as the Hops are using for flavouring beer. The Hops are essentially the flowers of the plant, which are often termed ‘strobiles’ and are used in herbal medicine.

Action

Hops contain bitters, phytooestrogens, volatile oil and resin. The bitters, humulone and lupulone have stimulating action of the appetite and digestive sytem, whilst the oils have a sedative and nerve soothing action. Hops are also said to be mildly diuretic, antispasmodic and have aphrodisiac properties.

Uses

Our experts recommend Hops for the following disorders:

Other information

Hops combine well with Valerian and passion flower. They are also used by herbalists and made into a topical poultice for skin problems. Hops are available as tablets, capsules or tincture. In addition hop pillows are available which can help with sleep disorders. Many people drink one or two pints of real ale to help with sleep and to improve digestion.

Cautions

• Hops are generally regarded as a safe herb and there are no contra-indications when used as a remedy for internal use.



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Hops.

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