Hops (Humulus lupulus)
Overview
Hops are the dried female flower cones of Humulus lupulus. Traditionally known for their role in brewing, hops have a long history in Western herbal medicine, particularly for calming the nervous system, supporting sleep, and aiding digestion. Their actions are largely attributed to bitter resins, volatile oils, and flavonoids.
Medicinal Benefits
1. Nervous System Support
Hops are best known for their calming and sedative effects.
Promotes relaxation and helps reduce nervous tension
Supports restful sleep and may shorten the time it takes to fall asleep
Traditionally used for anxiety, restlessness, and irritability
Often combined with other calming herbs for stress-related symptoms
Hops are especially indicated when stress manifests as mental overactivity, agitation, or difficulty unwinding.
2. Sleep Support
Hops have mild to moderate hypnotic (sleep-inducing) properties.
Encourages deeper, more restorative sleep
Helpful for occasional insomnia, especially stress-related insomnia
Traditionally used for night waking and light, unrefreshing sleep
Unlike some stronger sedatives, hops tend to support sleep without causing heavy grogginess for most people.
3. Digestive Support
As a bitter herb, hops stimulate digestive function.
Encourages the release of digestive juices
Supports appetite in cases of poor or weakened digestion
Helps relieve bloating, gas, and sluggish digestion
Traditionally used for nervous or stress-related digestive discomfort
Hops are particularly helpful when digestive issues are connected to tension or anxiety.
4. Pain and Tension Relief
Hops possess mild analgesic and antispasmodic actions.
Helps ease muscle tension and cramps
Traditionally used for tension headaches
May reduce discomfort associated with restlessness or nervous strain
These effects are subtle but supportive, especially when pain is linked to stress or poor sleep.
5. Hormonal and Menopausal Support
Hops contain phytoestrogenic compounds.
Traditionally used to support women during menopause
May help ease hot flashes, mood swings, and restlessness
Supports emotional balance during hormonal transitions
This action makes hops particularly useful for some individuals, but also requires caution (see contraindications).
6. Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Hops exhibit mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.
Traditionally used to support immune resilience
May help calm low-grade inflammation
Historically applied both internally and externally in herbal practice
Contraindications and Precautions
Do Not Use or Use With Caution If You:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless under professional guidance
Have estrogen-sensitive conditions (such as estrogen-positive breast cancer, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis), due to hops’ phytoestrogenic effects
Experience depression accompanied by lethargy or low motivation, as hops’ sedative qualities may worsen symptoms
Medication Interactions
Use caution or consult a qualified practitioner if taking:
Sedatives or sleep medications
Anti-anxiety medications
Antidepressants that cause drowsiness
Alcohol, as hops may enhance sedative effects
Sensitivities and Side Effects
Some individuals may experience excessive drowsiness
Rare allergic reactions are possible, especially in those sensitive to plants in the Cannabaceae family
Large doses may cause headache or digestive discomfort
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. By purchasing, buyer agrees that they are 18 years or older and are sufficiently educated to use this product in a safe and responsible manner. Buyer agrees to release from liability and hold Grounded Remedies by Phoenix LLC forever harmless in the event of personal injury or harm to self or others, health consequences, accidents, or any other negative consequences resulting from the purchase or ingestion of this product.
