Hops aretraditional crophas been known since ancient times and is now mainly used for brewing beer. But the yellow-green hop cones can do a lot more: Their ingredients naturally help withDigestive disorders and Menopausal symptoms, CystitisandCariesIn addition, hops, together withvalerian one of the most commonherbal sedatives: New scientific studies continue to prove its beneficial effects onSleep disorders and nervousness.
Origin of the hop plant
From the hop cones, which are the two to four centimetres long, greenish-yellow female inflorescences of theReal hops(Humulus lupulus), the extracts are obtained. Hops are a close relative of theHemp plant.The leaf shape is similar to that of vine leaves, but the edges are more jagged. Since the hopshumidityloves, it grows in its wild form mainly near rivers and on forest edges. InSouthern GermanyHops are traditionally grown on meter-high racks. The most important growing areas include Hallertau in Bavaria and the Schussen Valley in Baden-Württemberg. The shoots of theClimbing plantcan grow up to twelve meters tall. In July and August, the hops produce male and female flowers.
Function of hops
The majority of the hop harvest is used for brewing beer. Hops give the brewed beverage its typical bitter taste. In addition, its ingredients help to make the beerto make durableand to create a stable head of foam. In old librariesHop conesbetween the books, moisture and vermin are kept away. In naturopathy, hops are used for a variety of purposes. Responsible for the health-promoting effect are itsvaluable ingredients:Bitter substances(hop resins), flavourings (hop oils and essential oils) andTannins(polyphenols).
Hops in medicine
Against nervousness and sleep disorders:Studies have shown the calming effect and the subjective improvement in sleep quality. A German study found that the fat-soluble hop substances such as α-bitter acids are particularly important forcalming effectare responsible.
For digestion:Hops are also used innervousStomach problems, flatulence orDigestive disordersHisBitter substancesnaturally stimulate digestion.
Phyto-estrogens against women’s problems:Hops contain so-calledPhytohormones, substances that are similar to estrogen. Therefore, hops are helpful inEstrogen deficiency and menopausal symptomsIt also provides relief from menstrual cramps and cycle disorders. However, since there is a relative estrogen excess in the early phase of menopause, hops should only be taken ina later phaseDo not use hops during pregnancy or in children under twelve years of age.
Against cystitis:Hops promote the excretion of urine through the kidneys, the so-called diuresis. Therefore, it is used for kidney and bladder disorders such asIrritable bladderorCystitisused.
Antioxidant effect:Humulones and lupulones (polyphenopes) arehighly effective antioxidantsthat fight free radicals, which, among other things,inflammatory immune damagecan cause, accelerate aging processes or trigger cancer.
Antibacterial effect:Various studies have shown that hop ingredientsantibacterial and antifungal(against fungi) effect and can, for example, prevent the development ofDental cariesLupulon inhibits the growth of theHelicobacter pylori, which is partly responsible for duodenal ulcers and stomach cancer.
