HOPS

Humulus lupulus

Hops are often associated with beer, however they have a rich tradition in herbal medicine as a gentle, sleep inducing herb; it is said Abraham Lincoln once slept on a pillow of hops. 

Brewed as tea, hops have a bitter, floral flavour. 

Use in home brewing, as a tea, tincture, or even soap. 

10 g

The Wonderful World of Hops: More Than Just Beer Flavors

When you hear the word "hops," beer is probably the first thing that comes to mind. While it's true that hops are one of the key ingredients in beer-making, there's so much more to these plants than just their flavor. In fact, hops have been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and have a wide range of health benefits. In this blog post, we'll explore the wonderful world of hops and dive into the many ways they can be used.

First, let's talk about the role hops play in beer. Hops are added to beer during the brewing process to provide bitterness and flavor. This bitterness comes from compounds within the hops called alpha acids. The type and amount of hops used in a beer recipe can greatly impact its flavor profile. Some beers are known for their floral and citrusy hop flavors, while others have a more earthy and bitter taste. Hops can also be used to add aroma to beer. When added at the end of the brewing process, hops can give off a pleasant, flowery scent.

But hops are more than just a flavor and aroma enhancer. They have been used as a medicinal herb for centuries. One of the most well-known health benefits of hops is their ability to promote relaxation and restful sleep. This is due to the presence of a compound called humulene, which has a sedative effect on the body. Hops can also have a calming effect on the nervous system, making them great for reducing anxiety and stress.

In addition to their sedative properties, hops are also a natural anti-inflammatory. This is due to the presence of compounds called prenylated flavonoids. These compounds have been shown to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes and cytokines that promote inflammation, making hops a potential treatment for conditions like arthritis and asthma.

Another interesting benefit of hops is their potential to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that hops can increase blood flow to the brain, leading to improved memory and concentration. Additionally, hops may help to prevent age-related cognitive decline.

Finally, hops can be used in a variety of non-beer-related ways. They can be brewed into a tea, taken as a supplement, or used topically as a skin treatment. Hops contain antibacterial compounds that make them great for treating skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Conclusion:
While hops are best known for their role in beer-making, their many health benefits make them worth exploring for other uses too. From promoting relaxation and restful sleep to reducing inflammation and improving cognitive function, hops are truly a versatile plant. Incorporating hops into your health routine could be a great way to reap some of these benefits. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or a health nut, hops are definitely worth considering.