Hops Flowers

Energetics: Cooling, Drying, Relaxing

Actions: Nervine (sedative) (Calms the nerves), Antispasmodic (Relax spasms & cramps), Hypnotic (Sleep-inducing)

Found in: Lights Out

Most well known as a popular and primary ingredient in beer, Hops have a pronounced effect on the nervous system. These flowers from the viney plant bring about a sense of relaxation and sedation, and they especially prove helpful to calm an anxious, racing mind¹. All the while, they relax tense, cramping muscles. This sedating quality sets the stage to ward off insomnia². Resinous and bitter, Hop strobiles also stimulate the liver to promote healthy digestion. They are also known to have estrogenic properties, which make them a helpful ally during menopause³.

1. Kyrou, I., Christou, A., Panagiotakos, D., Stefanaki, C., Skenderi, K., Katsana, K., & Tsigos, C. (2017). Effects of a hops (Humulus lupulus L.) dry extract supplement on self-reported depression, anxiety and stress levels in apparently healthy young adults: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover pilot study. Hormones, 16(2), 171-180.
2. Salter, S., & Brownie, S. (2010). Treating primary insomnia: the efficacy of valerian and hops. Australian family physician, 39(6), 433.