16 Amazing Health Benefits Of Hops And Its Nutritional Value

From anti-aging benefits to improving overall health, here is how hops may help.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Swati Mutha, MBBS, DDV Dr. Swati Mutha Dr. Swati MuthaMBBS, DDV facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by Tanya Choudhary, B.Desgn, ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition Tanya Choudhary B.Desgn, ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Edited by Ravi Teja Tadimalla, BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health Ravi Teja Tadimalla BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health linkedin_icon Experience: 10 years
Fact-checked by Moksha Gandhi, BPharm, Certified Health & Wellness Coach Moksha Gandhi BPharm, Certified Health & Wellness Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
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If you are aware of brewing in beer preparation, you probably might know about hops. These flowers are used to impart flavor and taste to the beer. The benefits of hops are many, and they are not only mere simple flavoring agents. These female flowers of the hop plant were first discovered in the early 11th century and are grown in many parts of the world. There are also various spices of hops, and each of them has a different purpose. These flowers are known for their unique aroma, and they have a distinct sour taste. They are the first choice for any brewer to impart a perfect flavor and taste to the beer. Also, hops are valued medicinally – and you do not have to consume beer to enjoy their benefits. In the article, we have listed out the ways you can use hops to make use of their benefits. Continue reading.

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Hops

What Is It?
Hops are flowers from the hop plant (Humulus lupulus).

What Are Its Benefits?
It improves skin and hair health, digestion, and helps treat insomnia. Its unique flavor is used in beverages.

Who Can Use It?
Anyone with oily or acne-prone skin can use it.

How Often?
Hop extract can be safely used in doses of 300 mg every day for up to 3 months.

Caution
Breastfeeding mothers and pregnant individuals should avoid its use or consumption.

Skin Benefits Of Hops

As a herb, it has been used to treat various skin related diseases. Some of the skin benefits of hops are:

 1. Keeps Skin Young

Hop is a good source of antioxidants, which means that it helps the body fight against free radicals, giving the skin a radiant and youthful glow (1) and might prevent cancer (2).

2. Treats Skin Inflammation

Hops may benefit woman with skin inflammation
Image: Shutterstock

It may be the main ingredient in beer, but also used in various cosmetic products for skin treatments. The oils and minerals in the plant provide an anti-inflammatory effect to the skin and are used to decrease the surface blood vessels thereby reducing the redness and irritation (3).

3. Was Traditionally Used To Treat Leprosy

Owing to their anti-inflammatory properties, hops were used to treat leprosy.

However, the mechanism isn’t clear and there is no scientific evidence to back this up.

protip_icon Trivia
During the 8th century, Benedictine monks brewed beer with hops in a Bavarian abbey located outside of Munich, Germany. This is the first documented use of hops.

Hair Benefits Of Hops

You must have heard how using beer for hair can be a good choice. Yes, washing your tresses with beer can be beneficial because it contains hops!

 4. Reduces Hair Fall And Dandruff

Hops may benefit woman with hair fall and dandruff
Image: Shutterstock

Beer gives a natural shine and helps to reduce dandruff (4). Beer is also used to rinse the hair because it contains antioxidants and mainly hops, which help to reduce hair fall. The hop extract can also be directly used to wash your hair. First, rinse the hair with a mild shampoo, then use hop extract on the scalp. It is quite helpful in the treatment of scalp and dandruff. The essential vitamins and oils present in the hops help to open the tiny pores of the scalp and reduce the hair loss. The oils in this herb help to cure the dead skin on the scalp and remove dandruff, which blocks the pores of the scalp. It is easily available in the market, but can also be used directly from beer, which has high contents of hops.

Health Benefits Of Hops

Hops have unlimited health benefits, and a few of them are given below:

5. Eases Nervousness

Hops may benefit nervous woman
Image: Shutterstock

Hops are also used to treat insomnia. They are related to the “cannabis” family and are used as a drug for relaxing muscles and treating people suffering from anxiety (5). Due to the same, they might also help reduce symptoms of depression, and stress, and improve sleep.

6. Relaxes And Soothes Muscles

Animal studies suggest that hops help in relaxing the aching muscles and body pain, aiding in muscle growth, muscle recovery and relaxation. Easily available, it is used in many pain killers (6).

7. Treats Different Ulcers

Another property of this wonder weed is that it is used in the treatment of various types of ulcers. It has been proved that the dosage of hops mixed with other essential herbs helps in the treatment of various ulcer causing bacteria.

 8. Improves Digestive System

Improving the digestive system, hops accelerate the metabolism of the body (7). People suffering from various digestive disorders can go for this herbal medicine to improve digestion.

9. Provides Relief From Toothaches

Hops may benefit woman with toothache
Image: Shutterstock

The anti-inflammatory property of hops provides relief from a toothache and other oral diseases.

These are just a small part of the healing properties of hops. It can be used in several different ways to cure many diseases. The benefits of hops are not just limited to its beer making. It is also used as an active ingredient in flavoring yeast, which is further used in different medicines and baking products.

10. Relieves Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the biggest problems most people face today. And if it is your problem too, then you better start using hops essential oil right away! The sedative quality is what makes hops essential oil useful in combating anxiety and mood swings (8). It helps calm the mind and body.

 11. Analgesic

Animal studies suggest that hops essential oil is an analgesic that has many sedative qualities (9). It enjoyed great popularity among earlier generations as a sure-shot remedy for chronic pain. So don’t worry if chronic pain is bothering you. Just start using hops essential oil and enjoy the results!

12. Treats Insomnia

Hops may benefit woman with insomnia
Image: Shutterstock

As mentioned above, hops essential oil exhibits sedative and soothing qualities (10). It is a perfect treatment for sleeplessness or insomnia. You can diffuse some essential oil before going to bed and enjoy a peaceful and deep slumber. When you wake up, you’ll be ready to take on the world!

13. Treats Menstrual Cramps

Hops essential oil’s soothing properties and sedative effect help ease menstrual cramps and pain. The sedative quality helps loosen the muscles and reduces pain. It can help you naturally overcome the discomfort during menstruation!

14. Improves Sexual Performance

Hops essential oil helps men enhance their sexual prowess. Hops essential oil helps extend your performance. It can help you effectively counter the problem of premature ejaculation. As hops essential oil has a soothing effect on the body, it helps desensitize certain vital elements that lead to premature sexual stimulation.

15. Alleviates Cough And Congestion

Usually, inflammation and irritation are responsible for most of the common respiratory disorders. Using aromatherapyi  A treatment involving the inhalation or topical application of essential oils to reduce stress and anxiety levels. with hops essential oil helps reduce inflammation and soothe the irritated parts of your respiratory tract. Thus, it effectively reduces coughing and congestion too.

16. Treats Headache

One of the most popular uses of hops essential oil is to ease tension and the symptoms of headache. The soothing and sedative effects help loosen the muscles of your shoulders and the neck while helping relax the mind and providing relief from mental conditions like paranoia and dementiai  A disorder that causes impairment to one’s cognitive functioning, which includes thinking, remembering, and reasoning. . It helps improve cognitive function, memory, focus, creativity, productivity, and overall endurance (11). The soothing effect allows you to end your headache woes and helps you start your day with renewed energy!

protip_icon Fun Fact
One of the oldest varieties of hops is called noble hops and is used to add a slight bitterness and aroma to beers.

Nutritional Value Of Hops

As an herbal medicine, hops contain various essential oils, vitamins and minerals, which make it suitable for different uses. Some of the essential oils derived from hops are:

  • Myrcene
  • Caryophyllene
  • Farnesene
  • Humulene

These oils have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which make them perfect for relaxing the body. Vitamin E, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C have antioxidant properties, which makes the immune system more active and less prone to diseases. Some chemicals naturally found in the body are also found in this herb, which help in balancing the functions of the body.

Though its main function remains in the beer industry, hops is slowly gaining ground as a medicinal herb. It is time we look into this wonder drug and all that it has to offer. That mug of beer can always wait!

However, it can also be harmful if taken in excess. Plus, some groups of people also may need to avoid it. Keep reading to learn more about it.

Potential Side Effects And Precautions

While hops are generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience mild side effects. These can include drowsiness, dizziness, or hypersensitivity reactions, such as skin irritation or allergic responses (10). Those who are sensitive to hops or similar plants may be more prone to these effects. However, for the majority, hops are safe to use in moderation. It is always a good idea to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. If any adverse reactions occur, it is best to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.

If you do not belong to the groups of people mentioned above, if you are good at moderation, and if you have a trusted diet consultant, find below a few interesting recipes to enjoy hops.

Easy Hops Recipes

1. Hops Syrup

What You Need

  • 2 cups of dried hops (organic)
  • 1 cup of sugar (organic)
  • 2 cups of water

How To Prepare

  1. Boil the hops, sugar, and water in a saucepan, stirring constantly.
  2. Once boiled, remove it from heat and continue stirring for a few minutes.
  3. Let it cool and strain the syrup into a jar.
  4. Store in the refrigerator.

2. Hops Tea

What You Need

  • 5-10 hops cones (fresh or dried)
  • 3 cups of hot water

How To Prepare

  1. Place the hops cones in a teapot.
  2. Pour hot water into the teapot.
  3. Let the hops steep for about 15 minutes.
  4. Strain the mixture into a cup.
  5. Serve and enjoy!

Note:

Since hops tea is bitter, you may steep peppermint leaves with the tea for added flavor or add honey or any other sweetener to enhance its taste.

3. Hops-Infused Oil

What You Need:

  • 1/2 cup dried hops flowers
  • 1 cup carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil)
  • A clean glass jar with a lid
  • Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
  • Small saucepan
  • Dark glass bottle for storage (optional)

How To Prepare:

  1. Place the dried hops flowers in a clean glass jar.
  2. Gently warm the carrier oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t boil. Just warm enough to help infuse the hops.
  3. Pour the warm oil over the hops flowers in the jar, ensuring the flowers are fully submerged in the oil.
  4. Close the jar tightly with a lid and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks to allow the hops to fully infuse into the oil. Shake the jar gently every few days.
  5. After the infusion period, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove the hops flowers.
  6. Transfer the infused oil into a dark glass bottle for a longer shelf life. Store it in a cool, dark place.

The oil can be used topically for relaxation, massage, or skincare. This hops-infused oil is great for soothing muscles and calming irritated skin!

Infographic: All About Hops

Hops are popular additives in beers and beverages and prized for their bitterness and unique aroma. Their aroma is wonderful, and their different varieties impart different flavors.

Check out the infographic below to learn more about hops, their popular varieties, their global popularity, and the science behind their delightful flavor and aroma. Scroll down.

all about hops (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Hops impart a unique flavor and aroma to beer. The benefits of hops can be attributed to their vitamins and flavonoidsi  Naturally occurring antioxidants that are consumed by humans through various food products, particularly abundant in tea and wine. . They keep the skin young and impart radiance. They also aid in the treatment of leprosy and skin inflammation. Hops reduce hair fall and dandruff as well and may help treat ulcers, improve digestive health, and relieve anxiety and toothaches. They also have analgesic and sedative properties. Hops are also gaining attention as a medicinal herb. They also help patients with diabetes and cholesterol and help maintain liver health, skin health, hair health, vision health, heart health, joint health, and bone density. You can include them in your diet and enjoy their benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hops be used in supplements?

Yes, hops can be used in supplements. They are often included in herbal supplements for their calming properties, helping with sleep and relaxation. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking hops supplements, especially if you have any health conditions or are on medication.

Do hops help hair growth?

Hops are rich in silica that may help strengthen the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Do hops help you lose weight?

Yes. Matured hops extract helps reduce body fat in healthy overweight individuals (7). It is an effective natural weight loss remedy.

Are hops hallucinogenic?

Yes. Hops are a sedative and can produce hallucinogenic effects.

Key Takeaways

  • Including hops in your skincare routine may give you glowing skin and reduce inflammation.
  • Hops may improve hair growth and remove dandruff.
  • It may help treat anxiety, toothaches, ulcers, and digestive issues.
  • The sedative properties of this herb may also help treat insomnia.

Illustration: Amazing Health Benefits Of Hops And Its Nutritional Value

hops benefits

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Discover the medicinal benefits of hops. That’s right! Click on this video to learn how this ancient plant can help improve your health and wellbeing for a rejuvinated you.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Skin Ageing: Natural Weapons and Strategies
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3569896/
  2. Xanthohumol from Hop: Hope for cancer prevention and treatment
    https://iubmb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/iub.2522
  3. Redox and Anti-Inflammatory Properties from Hop Components in Beer-Related to Neuroprotection
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8226943/
  4. Humulus lupulus L. as a Natural Source of Functional Biomolecules
    https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/10/15/5074
  5. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet].
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548872/
  6. Relaxant effect of Humulus lupulus extracts on isotonic rat’s ileum contractions
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103727/
  7. Antioxidants in Hops: Bioavailability, Health Effects and Perspectives for New Products
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8868281/
  8. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet].
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548872/
  9. Relaxant effect of Humulus lupulus extracts on isotonic rat’s ileum contractions
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103727/
  10. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet].
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548872/
  11. Supplementation with Matured Hop Bitter Acids Improves Cognitive Performance and Mood State in Healthy Older Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32474473/
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Dr. Swati Mutha
Dr. Swati Mutha is a clinical and aesthetic dermatologist with over 10 years of experience. She has done her fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology from Singapore. She is a part of the Indian Dermatologist Association(IADVL) and has presented several papers and given lectures at national dermatology conferences.

Read full bio of Dr. Swati Mutha
Tanya Choudhary
Tanya ChoudharyHealth & Wellness Writer
Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin, hair, and health. She believes in the right health and lifestyle practices and strives to promote the same to everyone around her.

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Ravi Teja Tadimalla
Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief
Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Moksha Gandhi
Moksha GandhiHealth & Wellness Writer
Moksha is a health and wellness writer and a certified diet and nutrition coach. Her passion for science and writing has helped her excel in crafting evidence-based articles. Her previous experience in writing science-based research papers ensures that her articles are grounded in research and provide practical tips that are reader-focused.

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