What are hops?
Hops(Humulus lupulus) are a perennial climbing plant native toEurope and Asia, best known for its use in beer production. However, its flowering cones are also highly valued in phytotherapy for their soothing, digestive and hormonal properties. Rich in flavonoids, bitter acids and phytoestrogens, hops are a natural ally in combating anxiety, improving sleep, regulating hormones and relieving digestive disorders.
What are the benefits of hops?
Hops is a plant with numerous benefits, acting on :
- Sleep and relaxation: Helps you fall asleep quickly and get a good night's sleep.
- Stress and anxiety: soothes the nervous system and reduces nervousness.
- Hot flashes and menopause: Regulates female hormonal imbalances.
- Digestive system: Stimulatesappetite and relieves gastric disorders.
- Cardiovascular health: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action.
- Muscle pain: Reduces muscle tension and spasms.
- Skin and hair beauty: purifying and regenerating properties.
How to use hops
Hops can be used in a variety of ways, depending on your needs:
- As an infusion: For a relaxing and digestive effect.
- Liquid extract or mother tincture: For concentrated action.
- Capsules or tablets: For a hormonal or sedative cure.
- In essential oil: For local application to muscles and skin.
- Culinary use: In fermented dishes and beverages.
Tip: For a relaxing infusion, steep 1 tablespoon of hop cones in 250 ml of hot water for 10 minutes and drink before bedtime.
Are hops effective against insomnia?
Yes, thanks to its natural sedative properties, it :
- Helps you fall asleep more easily.
- Improves sleep quality by reducing night-time awakenings.
- Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation.
It is often combined with valerian and passionflower for an enhanced sleep-inducing effect.
Do hops help relieve stress and anxiety?
Yes, it is recognized for its calming effect on the nervous system, as it :
- Reduces nervousness and irritability.
- Reduces symptoms of chronic stress.
- Soothes muscular and nervous tension.
Ideal for people prone to anxiety disorders and prolonged stress.
Are hops beneficial for menopause and hormonal imbalances?
Yes, it contains phytoestrogens that :
- Relieve hot flashes and night sweats.
- Regulate menstrual cycles and soothe premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Promote hormonal balance in menopausal women.
It is often included in natural formulas for feminine well-being.
Do hops improve digestion?
Yes, thanks to its bitter acids, it :
- Stimulates secretion of digestive juices.
- Promotes appetite and fat digestion.
- Reduces bloating and intestinal fermentation.
It is often used in cases of slow digestion or lack of appetite.
Do hops have skin and hair benefits?
Yes, it is recognized for its purifying and regenerating virtues, as it :
- Balances sebum production, reducing acne and blemishes.
- Strengthens and stimulates hair growth.
- Soothes skin irritation and inflammation.
Hop extract is often used in fortifying shampoos and hair care products.
Can hops be used to relieve muscular pain?
Yes, thanks to its relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties, it :
- Relaxes tense, aching muscles.
- Reduces muscle cramps and spasms.
- Soothes pain linked to nervous tension.
It is often used as an essential oil or poultice.
Are there any contraindications to using hops?
Although natural,hops should be used with caution in certain cases:
- Not recommended for people with hormonal disorders (hormone-dependent cancers, endometriosis, fibroids).
- Avoid in cases of severe depression, as it may accentuate drowsiness.
- May interact with certain sedative and hormonal drugs.
- Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
What is the recommended daily dose of hops?
Recommendations vary according to the form used:
- Infusion: 1 to 2 cups a day.
- Capsules: 300 to 600 mg per day.
- Liquid extract: 30 to 50 drops, 1 to 2 times a day.
Do not exceed a 4-week course of treatment without medical advice.
Can hops be combined with other plants?
Yes, it goes well with :
- Valerian and passionflower: for a relaxing, sedative effect on sleep.
- Fennel and lemon balm: for improved digestion and calming the nerves.
- Chaste tree and sage: For enhanced action on hormonal balance.
