We have received questions about hops, the plant with which beer is prepared, and its properties. Here we will explain everything related to the lúpulo benefits and contraindications, but first let’s see some aspects:
It is part of the Cannabaceae family, which is made up of approximately 170 different species with a wide variation in characteristics, as this family includes both trees and herbs.
The hop plant produces annual stems from a perennial root system. It is often referred to as a vine, but it is actually a bineta, a plant that produces shoots that climb in a helical fashion around a support. These binets grow to heights of 18 to 25 feet (5 to 8 m) and always grow in a clockwise direction. The leaves are dark green, heart-shaped, and hairy.
The green, cone-shaped flowers used in beer production, also called strobiles, grow up to four inches (10 cm) long in clusters. The roots of the hop plant can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 m) deep.
Historic information Hops were used in culinary preparations as long ago as ancient Greece, where they were a popular ingredient in salads. They were first recorded as an ingredient in beer during the 8th century. However, they did not reach England until the 15th century, partly because both Henry VII and Henry VIII preferred the taste of unhopped beer.
When hops were first introduced, the plant was described as a weed that could endanger people. Now, it is widely accepted as an integral component of beer throughout the world.
The hop plant has a particularly interesting past as an herbal remedy in North America, since many scholars do not believe it is native to the Americas.
Economic data The hop plant has been popular ever since it was discovered to preserve beer and improve flavor, but demand has increased considerably in the last decade. This increase is probably due to the popularity of craft breweries and the demand for variety in high-quality beers. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the main hop producers in 2012 were Germany, with 34,434 tons; and the United States, with 27,782 tons.
popular beliefs In the past, the hops plant was used to treat a wide range of health problems, from jaundice to postpartum pain to motion sickness. It was even thought to be a cure for epilepsy, with treatment involving going to a hop plant and biting into the end of one session for seven mornings in a row.
Other uses
Beverage industry. Hops are best known as an ingredient in beer, but they are also found in some non-alcoholic beverages around the world.
Textiles. The stem fibers (bines) can be used in the production of cloth.
Fertilizer. After the strobes are used to brew beer, the remaining parts of the plant can be boiled and used as fertilizer.
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Hops Benefits
In addition to being a valuable ingredient in beer, the hop plant has a number of different medicinal applications and is useful for:
promote sedation. Hops can help alleviate insomnia and induce sleep by relaxing the body.
relieve anxiety The relaxing properties of hops are also helpful in treating anxiety symptoms.
Help digestion. Hops can increase stomach secretions to improve digestion, as well as reduce spasms in the digestive tract.
Benefits for skin and hair. The essential oils extracted from the plant can be used in perfumes and skin creams. Likewise, it can be used on the hair to improve its strength and shine due to its powerful volatile substances that interact with the hair follicles.
strengthen bones Research suggests that hops may be helpful in protecting against osteoporosis.
Fight against cancer Acids in the herb, called lupulones and humulones, have been shown to kill cancer cells and prevent leukemia cells from attaching to bone in petri dish experiments.
Has anti-inflammatory properties In a study published in the September 2009 issue of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, hop bitter acids were reported to effectively block inflammation regardless of PPARalpha, GRalpha, or PPARgamma.
The study established the anti-inflammatory effect of various classes of hop bitter acids (HBAs), including beta-acids (BA), alpha-acids (AA) and iso-alpha-acids (IAA), on fibroblasts, which are essential compounds in the inflammatory response.
Hops are also being investigated for their possible effect on menopausal and premenstrual symptoms because they appears to have estrogenic effects. The extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of menopause, and in a study of 100 postmenopausal women, a vaginal gel containing hops reduced painful intercourse, vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and inflammation.
Also know Hops remedies for insomnia, anxiety and more
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How does it work
The sedative action of hops is mainly due to its bitter acids, especially the alpha-acid component 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol. This compound increases the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), thereby inhibiting the central nervous system (CNS) and relaxing the body. This same property can help alleviate anxiety symptoms, which are often caused by an overactive CNS response.
The bitter acids in hops, which include lupulin, humulon, lupulon, and valeric acid, stimulate the gastrointestinal system by increasing secretions that aid digestion. These bitter acids are also known for their strong antiseptic properties.
Hops also contain prenylflavonoids, which have been suggested to protect bones against weakening associated with age and, in women, menopause. Hop bitter acids are believed to provide similar protective effects.
Additionally, phytoestrogenic compounds in hops, as mentioned above, have been potentially linked to beneficial effects on menopausal and premenstrual symptoms.
Lemon balm and valerian also provide sedative benefits, while the bitter compounds in dandelion and chicory promote good digestion.
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Contraindications and Side Effects of Hops
While hops are safer to consume, some side effects can occur. People taking hops have reported mood changes, such as increased nervousness and depression. Additionally, women reported irregular menstrual cycles, while some men reported loss of libido.
Hops can cause excessive drowsiness if consumed in a supplemental form along with alcohol or sedatives. People with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer or endometriosis should also exercise caution before taking hops because their phytoestrogen content may affect or worsen these conditions.
An allergic reaction to hops is possible and may include symptoms such as chest pain, breathing problems, hives, rash, or itchy skin. Hops are not recommended for pregnant or lactating women due to a lack of research on the effect of hops on fetal development and infants.
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