Hops are scientifically known as Humulus lupulus. It is a perennial plant. It is mainly produced to make beer. Apart from winemaking, it has a rich history in traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda. We will learn about hops in detail in this article.
Table of Contents
Scientific Name
Humulus lupulus
Synonyms
Common Hop
Habit and Natural Habitat
It is a Perennial herb. It is found in temperate regions worldwide, especially near water bodies.
Other Common names
Hops
Chemical Composition
A variety of chemical compounds are found in hops. Some of its primary components are Alpha acids (e.g., humulone), Beta acids (e.g., lupulone), Essential oils (e.g., myrcene, humulene), Flavonoids, Tannins, and Bitter acids.
Plant Parts Used
The female flowers, called hop cones or strobiles, are used in medicinal preparations.
Properties of Hops
Ayurvedic Properties
In Ayurveda, hops are classified based on their taste (Rasa), potency (Virya), and post-digestive effect (vipaka):
- Rasa: Bitter
- Virya: Heating
- Vipaka: Pungent
These properties help in balancing Kapha and Vata doshas.
Therapeutic properties
It offers a variety of therapeutic properties, including:
- As a sedative: It has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety and insomnia.
- Anti-inflammatory properties present: Hops have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and reduce pain.
- Aids digestion: Its bitter taste can stimulate digestive secretions, thereby aiding digestion and relieving gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Hops are rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that help the body deal with oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage.
Health Benefits of Hops
It offers a variety of health benefits:
- Helps you sleep better: These are often used due to their sedative effects. It is used in the treatment of insomnia and sleep disorders. It may promote restful sleep and help improve sleep quality.
- Relieves Anxiety: Hops have calming properties that help promote relaxation and mental well-being by reducing anxiety and stress.
- Provides relief from pain: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce arthritis and muscle pain.
- Digestive Health: The compounds present in it help in providing relief from indigestion, bloating, and other gastrointestinal problems by stimulating the digestive process.
- Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants present in it help protect against oxidative damage.
Uses of Hops
To take advantage of the medicinal properties of this herb, it can be used in different forms:
- As herbal tea: To make herbal tea, hop cones are boiled in hot water and then filtered and used.
- In the form of tinctures and extracts: Liquid extracts and tinctures of hops can be taken orally. It helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, and digestive problems.
- Topical preparations: Hop-infused oils and creams can be applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation.
Precautionary Measures for Hops
It is safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, but some precautions should be considered when consuming it:
- Pregnant and lactating women may experience hormonal effects due to which its consumption should be avoided.
- Persons allergic to hops or related plants (e.g., cannabis) should use caution and consult a doctor before using it.
- It may interact with some medications so be sure to consult a doctor before using it with other medications.
Conclusion
Hops provide countless health benefits. You can use it in the form of herbal tea or tincture. However, it should be used responsibly and a doctor should be consulted before using it.
Remember, before starting any new wellness regimen, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable for your specific needs and circumstances.
