Hops : Uses and Health Benefits

by MedlinePlus

A hop is a member of the Cannabacea family, traditionally used for relaxation, sedation, and to treat insomnia. A number of methodologically weak human trials have investigated hops in combination withvalerian (Valeriana officinalis)for the treatment of sleep disturbances, and several animal studies have examined the sedative properties of hops monotherapy. However, the results of these studies are equivocal, and there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend hops alone or in combination for any medical condition.

Hops are also sometimes found in combination products withpassionflower (Passiflora incanata), skullcap (potentially hepatotoxic), or with a high percentage of alcohol (up to 70% grain alcohol), confounding the association between the herb and possible sedative or hypnotic effects.

Hops contain phytoestrogens that may possess estrogen receptor agonist or antagonist properties, with unclear effects on hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast, uterine, cervical, or prostate cancer, or endometriosis.

Synonyms

Common hops, European hops, hop, hop strobile, Hopfen (German), houblon (French), humulus, lupulin, lupulus, Lupuli strobulus, spent hops ( Humulus lupulus ), Ze 91019.

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Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence

Insomnia/sleep quality

Animal studies report that hops may have sedative and sleep-enhancing (hypnotic) effects. However, little human research has evaluated the effects of hops on sleep quality. Some studies combine hops with valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ), and the effects of hops cannot be separated from the possible benefits of valerian. Further study is needed in this area before a recommendation can be made.

Sedation

Hops have been used traditionally as a sedative, for relaxation and reduction of anxiety. Although some animal studies suggest possible sedative properties, there is limited human research in this area. Better studies are needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.

Uses based on tradition or theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Analgesic, antidepressant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimycobacterial , antispasmodic, anthelmintic, antiviral (anti-HCV, anti-Rhino, anti-herpes virus), anxiety, aphrodisiac, appetite stimulant, asbestosis, atherosclerosis, atopic dermatitis, breast enhancer, cancer (breast, uterine, cervical, prostate), Crohn's disease, diabetes, digestion, dysentery, dyspepsia, estrogenic effects, hot flashes, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney disorders, leprosy, leukemia (HL-60 ), lipid metabolism, menopausal symptoms, mood disturbances, muscle spasm, nervous disorders, obesity, osteoporosis, restlessness, rheumatic disorders, silicosis, skin ulcers (topical), tuberculosis.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Standardization

Standardization involves measuring the amount of certain chemicals in products to try to make different preparations similar to each other. It is not always known if the chemicals being measured are the "active" ingredients. Some hops extracts are standardized to 5.2% bitter acids and/or to 4% flavonoids per dose.

Adults (18 years and older)

Oral (by mouth): For insomnia or sleep disturbances, research has used 300 to 400 milligrams of hops extract combined with 240 to 300 milligrams of valerian extract, taken before bed. Traditionally, doses of 0.5 to 1.0 gram of dried hops extract or 0.5 to 1.0 milliliters of liquid hops extract (1:1 in 45% alcohol) have been taken up to three times daily, although using hops alone has not been well studied.

Intravenous/intramuscular: Not recommended. In animal studies, large injected doses have resulted in a narcotic effect, followed by death. Long-term therapy has resulted in weight loss and death.

Children (younger than 18 years)

Oral (by mouth): Hops extract is traditionally considered to be one of the milder sedative herbs, and to be safe for children. However, there is limited research in this area, and safety has not been clearly established. Some natural medicine experts suggest adjusting the dose according to body weight (multiply the usual adult dose by the child's weight in pounds, then divide by 150).

Safety

Allergies

Rash (contact dermatitis) and difficulty breathing have been reported mainly in hops harvesters. Allergy to hops pollen has also been reported. Hops allergy has been reported in a patient with previous severe allergic reactions to peanut, chestnut and banana. Therefore people allergic to any of these agents should avoid hops.

Side Effects and Warnings

Dry cough, difficulty breathing, chronic bronchitis and other occupational respiratory diseases have been associated with hops. Dust from hops can contain harmful bacteria. Long-term breathing problems have been reported in brewery workers exposed to hops dust.

Hops may cause mild central nervous system (CNS) depression (drowsiness, slowed breathing and thinking), especially when taken with drugs or herbs/supplements that also cause CNS depression. Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery.

Animal studies report that eating hops in large quantities may cause seizure, hyperthermia, restlessness, vomiting, stomach pain, and increased stomach acid. Laboratory research shows that estrogen-like substances in hops may have stimulatory or inhibitory effects on estrogen-sensitive parts of the body, and it is unclear what effects may occur in hormone-sensitive conditions such as cancer (breast, uterine, cervical, prostate), or endometriosis.

Based on preliminary animal studies, hops may lower blood sugar levels in normal individuals, but may actually increase blood sugar in those with diabetes. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare provider, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

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