Humulus

In modern herbal medicine, Licorice is used by specialists mainly to treat disorders of the nervous and digestive system (including anorexia). Research that has been done in recent years tends to the conclusion that the consumption of Hops affects the central nervous system - it is not a simple muscle relaxant (it also has this property) as some researchers had initially argued. This results in Hops being considered effective in combating anxiety, over-tension, nervousness, depression and insomnia. Essentially, Hops are considered to have strong sedative and hypnotic properties. Although the presence of valeric acid in the flowers was initially thought to be responsible for the above properties, the recent discovery of the compound 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol has changed the facts. This substance is very similar to the well-known hypnotic methylpentynol and in clinical research it appears to have exactly the same effects.

As for the effect of Humulus in the treatment of stomach disorders, this is mainly due to its spasmolytic action. In experiments done on animals (guinea pig duodenum and rat uterus) the spasmolytic action of Hops seems to compete with that of Atropine. It is a muscle relaxant – which explains its effectiveness in spasms of the intestines (irritable bowel syndrome, stomach upset, Crohn's disease). Also, Hops are particularly rich in bitter substances (5-30%). Two of them (humulone and lupulone) are considered to stimulate the appetite, thus treating (to some extent) the condition of anorexia.

Humulus is one of the most important herbs and has some very interesting properties. It has antibiotic properties as some of the substances it contains (isohumulone and humulinic acid) promote the fight against bacteria in the human body.

Humulus contain an abundance of active ingredients such as essential oils (over 150 aromatic substances), tannins, flavonoids (kaempferol and quercetin mono- and diglycosides, xanthohumol and chalcones), resin (containing, among others, valeric acid), bitter substances (acylphlo- glucides, humulones, lupulones), plant pigment glycosides (astralagin, quercitrin, rutin) and various amino acids.

Preparation of drink: add 1-2 teaspoons of the dried flowers to a cup of boiled water (3 times a day). If you combine Hops with Valerian (insomnia), then prepare a drink (1 teaspoon of each herb) one hour before going to bed.

Origin: Greece. 

Stored: In a dark and cool (5oC – 15oC) place

Warnings

The information given about the herbs and their properties has been drawn from books, botanical literature and research. They do not in any way constitute medical advice or prescription.

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication or have any health problems.