SAEDNEWS: Hops is a plant that, beyond its long-recognized medicinal properties and use in treating various ailments, has numerous industrial applications. In the food and beverage industry, hop extracts are used as flavoring agents. Hops also has many other uses—join us to learn more about this beneficial plant.
Hops is one of the most widely used plants in the brewing industry, particularly in beer and soft drinks, and its extract is often used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. The parts of the plant that are used are its female cones (flowers), and historically, people who harvested hops sometimes experienced calming effects. In ancient times, hops flowers were used as a natural pain reliever, and to ease nervous disorders, the flowers were placed in pillows. Hops are known for treating insomnia, calming sexual desire, stimulating appetite, strengthening the stomach, acting as a mild laxative, and possessing antiseptic properties.
However, it is important to note that although hops, like other medicinal plants, have beneficial effects, experts in traditional medicine warn that consuming hops in beverages and malt drinks can carry risks. Below is a closer look at the therapeutic, health, and cosmetic properties of hops, as well as precautions.
1. Stress and Anxiety Relief
Traditionally, hops has been valued for its calming properties and can help reduce anxiety and stress. Studies suggest that hops exert a soothing effect on the nervous system, and it is believed to modulate GABA receptors in the brain. When combined with valerian root, hops appears to have an even stronger calming effect.
2. Improved Sleep
Evidence shows that hops can improve sleep quality and may help treat insomnia. Traditionally used for sleep-related issues, multiple studies have examined its effectiveness as a natural sleep aid. Research indicates that hops combined with valerian root is particularly effective. For example, a 2012 study on female nurses, who often experience stressful work conditions and irregular sleep patterns, found that those who consumed hops-containing drinks reported better sleep quality than the control group.
3. Relief from Menopause Symptoms
Hops contain compounds that act similarly to estrogen, which can help alleviate hormone-related menopause symptoms. A study involving 100 postmenopausal women found that a vaginal gel containing hops reduced vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, burning, itching, and inflammation. Another 2006 study examined the effects of phytoestrogen extracts from hops (prenyl naringenin-8) and found that daily consumption alleviated multiple menopausal discomforts, including hot flashes.
4. Muscle Relaxation
Hops, alone or combined with valerian root, can help relax muscles, reduce joint stiffness, and prevent spasms and cramps. Experts note that the combination enhances the overall effect.
5. Cognitive Health
Recent research from China shows that xanthohumol-A, a compound in hops, may protect brain cells from oxidative stress. This type of stress can contribute to neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Researchers at Lanzhou University found that xanthohumol protects the brain and may reduce the risk of various neurological conditions.
6. Anti-Cancer Potential
Laboratory studies at Oregon State University indicate that xanthohumol in hops may help combat certain cancers. It has shown effectiveness against colon, ovarian, and breast cancer cells and may even help prevent the progression of prostate cancer.
7. Allergies
While some individuals are allergic to hops, others believe it may help relieve allergic reactions. However, no scientific evidence currently supports hops as an effective antihistamine.
8. Hair Care
Washing hair with hops extract may enhance shine and reduce dandruff. The antioxidants in hops can strengthen the scalp and reduce hair loss. To try this, wash hair with a mild shampoo, apply hops extract to the scalp, massage, leave it for a while, then rinse as usual.
9. Weight Management
A 2012 study reported that flavonoids, particularly xanthohumol in hops, helped reduce body weight and fasting blood sugar in obese mice. Researchers suggest that hops extract may positively influence certain symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
10. Heart Health
Hops may benefit cardiovascular health due to xanthohumol, which exhibits anti-platelet activity. A 2012 study suggested that this compound could help prevent and treat heart and vascular diseases.
Traditional and Islamic medicine experts caution that consuming hops, whether directly or indirectly (as found in malt drinks and fruit beverages), can be risky for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 2 years old. Overconsumption of hops and its products may lead to early puberty in girls, delayed sexual maturity in boys, sexual dysfunction in men, increased sexual fantasies in women, and obesity in both genders.
Hops contain two hormones, humulone and lupulone, so excessive intake may cause hormonal interference in women. Additionally, hops can interact with sedative medications, potentially enhancing their effects.
