Hops Flowers  

Also Known As – Humulus lupulus

Organically Grown USA - Yakama Washington

Overview - Hops are the greenish flowers that grow on a vining plant native to North America, Europe and Asia. The vines are prickly and grow quite large. They are commercially grown and used to flavor beer. They can be propagated by seed, cuttings or root cuttings. It is a perennial that will come back year after year. The plants prefer full sun and rich soil to grow at its best. It blooms in July and continues for the rest of the season.

Medicinal Uses – Internally, Hops can treat nervous tension, anxiety, insomnia, irritability and nervous digestion problems due to its sedative qualities. It is also a good herbal remedy for irritable bowel syndrome and premature ejaculation. Some use the herb to decrease the desire for alcohol. They are antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, and have been used to treat infections of the upper digestive tract. It has been the herb of choice for colitis, palpitations, nervous coughs, hysteria, amenorrhea with a nervous cause and sexual neuroses. This herb has been recommended for asthma, tuberculosis and bronchitis. It has been taken to lower fever and promote urination, as it is a diuretic. Some have used it to rid the body of parasitic worms, leprosy, dysentery, and to stimulate the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Externally, Hops can be applied to the skin to treat eczema, infections, ulcers and herpes. It can be added to shampoo to get rid of greasy hair and dandruff. Added to bath gels, it stimulates the cutaneous metabolism and stimulates hair growth. Poultices of heated flowers have been applied topically to treat toothache and headache.

Other Uses – Hops are used to flavor and preserve beer. Young shoots can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like asparagus. The oil is used in the perfume trade. In Scandinavia, the vines are soaked all winter and then made into a coarse cloth. Dried flower heads can be used decoratively in flower arrangements and the vines can be used for woven baskets. The flowers and leaves will produce a brownish-red dye.

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - Hops are often combined with Valerian, passionflower and German chamomile to make formulas for aiding sleep and restlessness.

Parts Used - The female flowers (hops) and the grain is used medicinally.

Precautions - Hops should not be used by people who are depressed or are allergic to this herb.

Suggested Preparation and Dosage - Hops are available dried, as an extract, a tincture or supplement. A typical dose for adults is 100 to 200 mg per day. For tincture, 6 to 12 drops can be taken 1 to 3 times per day.

Disclaimer - These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.