Humulus lupulus belongs, along with hemp, to the small family of plants Cannabaceae. These two genera are not only botanically related but also share the same sedative properties.
The medicinal use of hops is already described in the Middle Ages, but more recently the special use of hop cones (Lupuli strobulus) and the glandular hairs of the scales (Glandulae Lupuli) as a sedative and soporific. Humulus Lupulus contains numerous chemical compounds that promote health and are naturally powerful antioxidants. They destabilize the action of harmful free radicals and protect against the dangerous effects of oxidative stress in the body. Humulus Lupulus can thus protect the body against various diseases and disorders induced by oxidative stress.
Hops in scientific research
In 1999, the research group of Prof. Dr. Denis De Keukeleire from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ghent University first published that hops contain the most potent phytoestrogen in nature, specifically 8-prenylnaringenin, also called hope, which belongs to the class of polyphenols, more specifically to the subclass of prenylflavonoids. This revealing and intriguing finding has now been confirmed by five independent research groups from Germany, England, and Japan.
Hops and Insomnia
Humulus lupulus has traditionally been used as a sleep aid. It is a sedative plant that combats insomnia and induces sleep. Humulus Lupulus increases GABA activity, which in turn helps the person to relax. This sedative plant affects serotonin, a hormone involved in sleep regulation. Serotonin further activates melatonin, a natural sleep hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle (when you wake up and when you fall asleep). Humulus Lupulus thus promotes the induction of sleep.
Hops and Valerian
Although hops alone have shown promise in relieving anxiety and sleep disorders, it could be even more effective if combined with an herb called valerian. This herb has much in common with hops. It also has a long history of use as an herbal treatment for insomnia. According to a review article published in Australian Family Physician, some scientific evidence suggests that valerian may help improve sleep quality when taken alone or in combination with hops.
Hops and Sleeping Well
