Hops

Genus; Species: Humulus Lupulus

CAM Type: biologically based

Common Names: Hops, Hop Strobile, European Hops

Introduction to Hops:

Hops are the flowers of Humulus lupulus, a flowering vine native to North America, Asia, and Europe. Hops have been used for centuries for their sedative qualities to help promote positive support for sleep difficulty, occasional anxious feelings, restlessness, nervousness and tension.

Common Uses:

Sleep difficulty, restlessness, tension, occasional anxiety, nervousness

The sedative action of hops is, in moderate amounts, mild and provides relief from difficulties sleeping – without drowsiness the following morning.

Preparation Methods:

Hops are often combined with Valerian Root, Passion Flower, and German Chamomile in herbal preparations, in order to bolster its effects. Hops are available for consumption as a dry herb, supplement or tea extract.

Pharmacology and Phytochemicals:

Researchers have isolate Flavonoids, Chalcones, and Alpha Acids as active components in the Hops plant.

Mechanisms of Action:

The exact mechanism of action of Hops hasn’t been determined as of yet, but the plant’s sedative qualities are unquestioned due to long-standing historical documentation as well as various clinical studies.

Phytochemists believe that the Flavonoids, Chalcones, and Alpha Acids contained in hop extracts are responsible for this sedative activity.

Usage:

A clinical dose of hops for adults is 100mg to 200mg.

Safety, Side Effects and Warnings:

Hops have shown excellent tolerability and no drug-related adverse effects were reported in clinical trials involving adults.

Clinical Evidence:

Clinical References for Hops

Author: Jase Donaldson