Did you know that hops, the same thing that gives an extra kick to beer, also has many medicinal uses? Hops have high levels of vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E, and are loaded with antioxidants and flavonoids. Hop extract is used to relax muscles, boost cognitive health, help with cardiovascular treatment, promote skin health and ease menopausal discomfort. With women, it can be especially beneficial as it has been found to help relieve painful intercourse, burning, itching, vaginal inflammation and reduce the severity of hot flashes.
The extract from hops can also be used as a sedative and is often used as a sleep aid.
Used as a tincture, 10-15 drops into the water to improve mood and relax the body. Brewing dried hops in hot water for tea can treat headaches.
Hops are used in the treatment for:
- Anxiety and depression
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Dry scalp (dandruff)
- Fibromyalgia
- Hair loss
- Hormone changes due to menopause
- Increase blood flow to boost cognitive function
- Inflammation in joints and muscles
- Insomnia
- Minimize the severity of menstrual cramps and other symptoms, such as mood swings
- Skin conditions
- Tension headaches
- Toothaches
- Ulcers
- Weight loss
Hop oil is steam-distilled from the hop flower and contains myrcene, caryophyllene, farnesene and humulene. Used with steam inhalation, baths and aromatherapy, it’s often combined with valerian root oil for treatment of insomnia and anxiety. Hop essential oil possesses estrogenic activity that’s beneficial for menstruation pains and menopause. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using hops for medicinal use unless directed by a doctor.
Hops can cause drowsiness and should not be used with other sedatives like clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien), and others. Otherwise, hop to it.
