What is hop and what is it used for?
Hop (Humulus lupulus) is a plant of the Cannabaceae family family which is known for its use in herbal medicine and also because it is used in brewing.
Hop plant strobiles (hops) are used as a folk remedy because they are rich in resins and bitter principles. These have soothing, sedative, tonic and digestive properties.
- Hops have a strong bitter taste, which explains their ability to strengthen and stimulate digestion.
- The plant is used in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, headaches, indigestion and arthritis.
- External applications, are is used in skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
What contraindications does hop present?
Plant drawing
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is Not enough known about the use of hops during pregnancy and lactation. During pregnancy, hops could have oestrogenic effects (contains phytoestrogens). Consult your doctor before taking hops.
- Depression: hops have sedative, soothing and hypnotic properties, however, being used in people with depression, can worsen depression symptoms.
- Endometriosis, breast cancer, uterine cancer and other cancer types: hormone sensitive cancers may be susceptible to some components of hops (phytosterols). NOT recommended.
- Alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives and hypnotics: hop components enhance the sedative effect of these substances and may cause drowsiness. You must know that this combination can be dangerous if you have to drive a vehicle or machinery.
More information on hop.
This article was endorsed by Elisenda Carballido - Dietitian nutritionist. Postgraduate in Phytotherapy and master in Nutrition and Metabolism.
