Hop contraindications

What is hop and what is it used for?

Hop (Humulus lupulus) is a plant of the Cannabaceae family family which is known for its use in herbal medicine and also because it is used in brewing.

Hop plant strobiles (hops) are used as a folk remedy because they are rich in resins and bitter principles. These have soothing, sedative, tonic and digestive properties.

  • Hops have a strong bitter taste, which explains their ability to strengthen and stimulate digestion.
  • The plant is used in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, headaches, indigestion and arthritis.
  • External applications, are is used in skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.

What contraindications does hop present?

Plant drawingPlant drawing

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is Not enough known about the use of hops during pregnancy and lactation. During pregnancy, hops could have oestrogenic effects (contains phytoestrogens). Consult your doctor before taking hops.
  • Depression: hops have sedative, soothing and hypnotic properties, however, being used in people with depression, can worsen depression symptoms.
  • Endometriosis, breast cancer, uterine cancer and other cancer types: hormone sensitive cancers may be susceptible to some components of hops (phytosterols). NOT recommended.
  • Alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives and hypnotics: hop components enhance the sedative effect of these substances and may cause drowsiness. You must know that this combination can be dangerous if you have to drive a vehicle or machinery.

punto rojoMore information on hop.

This article was endorsed by Elisenda Carballido - Dietitian nutritionist. Postgraduate in Phytotherapy and master in Nutrition and Metabolism.
Editorial
Written by Editorial Botanical-online team in charge of content writing

3 January, 2022

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