Synonyms: Humulus, Lupulus
Family: Cannabinaceae or Moraceae
Genus species: Humulus lupulus
Type: Dioecious perennial climbing herb
Part Used: Strobiles from female plant
Location: China, India, Temperate Zones, U.S., Western Europe
Actions: Anaphrodisiac, anodyne, antimicrobial, antiseptic (topical), antispasmodic (on smooth muscles esp. intestines), antituberculotic, appetite stimulant, aromatic bitter, astringent, bactericide, bactericide (topical), bitter, calmative, CNS depressant, decreases the desire for alcohol, diuretic, expectorant, hepatic, hypnotic, mild depressant, nervine, possible action against cysts and cancer, respiratory stimulant, sedative, soporific, spasmolytic, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge
Indications: Acidosis, anorexia, anxiety, cirrhosis, Crohn's disease, cystitis, dyspepsia, dysuria, earache, excitability, fever, gonorrhea, hyperexcitability, indigestion, inflammation, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, leg ulcers (topical), migraine, mucous colitis, muscle spasms, nervous insomnia, nervous restlessness, neuralgia, pain, poor circulation, priapism, rheumatism, spastic colon, stress, tension headache, toothache, trigeminal neuralgia, tuberculosis, ulcer, urethritis
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Carbohydrates (77%), Fats (3%), Fiber (7%), Fructose, Glucose, Magnesium, Pectin, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein (18%), Vitamin C
Preparation & Dosages:
Dried Strobile: 0.5-1 g or by infusion
Hypnotic: 1-2 g, or by infusion
Liquid Extract: 1:1 in 45% alcohol, dose 0.5-2 ml
Pillow filled with hops will induce sleep
Tea: 0.5 g (1-2 tsp) in boiling water, steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, 2-3x/day at bedtime
Tincture: 1:5 in 60% alcohol, dose 1-2 ml
Contraindications: Depression, lactation and pregnancy.
Drug interactions: Combinations with other sedative drugs may be advantageous. Hops may potentiate the sedative action of sedatives and alcohol. Due to the diuretic action of this herb the following drug interactions are possible: increased risk of toxicity with anti-inflammatory analgesics; if hypokalemia occurs possible antagonism with antiarrhythmics and potentiation of muscle relaxants; antagonizes antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs; may potentiate and/or interfere with antihypertensives; may potentiate lithium therapy; when taken with corticosteroids there is a risk for hypokalemia; may potentiate other diuretics and increase the risk of hypokalemia. Hops preparations may antagonize antidepressants.
Side Effects: (Possible adverse effects and/or overdose effects) Allergenic, dermatitis.
Note: Fresh hops are best since potency is rapidly lost during storage.
Safety: GRAS.