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Hops, scientifically known as Humulus lupulus L., is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Cannabaceae family. Universally known as "the beer plant," this species actually has potential that goes far beyond its traditional use in the brewing process.
Its valuable female flowers, covered with a powdery and aromatic substance called lupulin, not only give beer its characteristic bitter taste but also contain important beneficial properties for the body's well-being. While brewers, experts in beer production, appreciate its aromatic and preservative qualities, herbalists recognize its phytotherapeutic virtues, using it particularly for the preparation of relaxing herbal teas. Versatile in its use, hops also find a place in cooking, where its young leaves and shoots can be consumed after cooking, while its essential oil is used to flavor beverages, desserts, and baked goods.
Discover the unique aroma and sought-after quality of dried hops from Terzaluna, the e-commerce of carefully selected teas, herbal teas, and spices. Don't settle for less: bring excellence to your pantry and bring your culinary creations to life with top-quality ingredients.
The Humulus lupulus is a perennial herbaceous plant with a climbing nature that can reach considerable heights, up to 9-10 meters, thanks to its slender stems that cling to natural or artificial supports. It belongs to the Cannabaceae family and can live from 10 to 20 years, a characteristic that makes it a particularly long-lived crop.
The plant features a branched rhizome from which the characteristic climbing stems develop. The leaves are heart-shaped, opposite, and have 3-5 serrated lobes, with a rough upper surface due to the presence of hairs and a resinous underside. Being a dioecious species, the male and female flowers are found on separate plants: the former are grouped in drooping panicles with 5 tepals and 5 stamens, while the latter form the characteristic membranous cones containing the ovary.
Beer hops prefer cool environments and fertile soils, growing spontaneously along watercourses, hedges, and forest edges up to 1,200 meters in altitude. It is particularly widespread in Northern Italy, but wild hops can be found in all regions, although it becomes rarer towards the south. Its commercial cultivation extends in both hemispheres, between 30° and 52° latitude.
The female cones are the most valuable part of the plant, rich in resinous glands that secrete lupulin, a yellowish and bitter substance. This contains important compounds such as alpha-acids (humulone, adhumulone), beta-acids (lupulone, adlupulone), polyphenols, and essential oils. The chemical composition also includes flavonoids, tannins (2-4%), and numerous other active ingredients, totaling over 1,000 identified substances.
The systematic cultivation of hops began in the 9th century in Germany, later spreading throughout Europe. In Italy, it was the agronomist Gaetano Pasqui who introduced it in 1847. Particularly important is the distinction of "noble hops", a historical-commercial classification that identifies four European varieties of excellence: Hallertauer Mittelfrueh, Tettnanger, Spalt, and Saaz.
Hops is a plant with extraordinary beneficial properties, recognized by both traditional medicine and recent scientific studies. Its rich composition of active ingredients makes it a valuable ally for the well-being of the body.
The presence of lupulone and humulone gives hops pronounced sedative properties, scientifically proven. These compounds, through the modulation of GABA receptors, promote relaxation of the nervous system, proving effective against anxiety, restlessness, agitation, and sleep disorders.
One of the most significant features of hops is the presence of 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), considered the most potent natural phytoestrogen known. This peculiarity makes the plant particularly suitable for women in menopause, helping to counteract symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and restlessness. Discover other best herbs for menopause.
The bitter principles contained in the female cones stimulate the secretion of gastric juices, promoting digestion and appetite. The plant also shows anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for the well-being of the gastrointestinal tract.
Recent in vitro studies have highlighted promising antitumor properties, mainly attributed to the flavonoids present in the plant, particularly xanthohumol. These studies have shown an antiproliferative action on malignant cells of various types of cancer, although further research is needed to confirm these effects.
Hops also exhibit antibacterial properties and can be used externally for treating skin issues. Additionally, some studies suggest a possible positive effect on metabolism and cholesterol control.
Hops is used in numerous fields, from beer production to natural medicine, thanks to its multiple properties and characteristics. Here are the main areas of use for this versatile plant:
Beer hops represent the key ingredient in the brewing process, where they perform several essential functions. Besides imparting the characteristic bitter flavor, they contribute to the microbiological stability of the beverage and the formation of foam. Hops are categorized into bittering, added at the beginning of the boil, and aromatic, added in the last 30 minutes to preserve the essential oils that provide notes ranging from citrus to resinous, fruity to floral.
In herbalism, the female cones are primarily used to prepare teas with sedative and relaxing properties. Hops are included in traditional blends, often combined with other plants like valerian and lemon balm, to promote sleep and reduce anxiety. The extract can also be taken in the form of tincture or standardized liquid extract.
Make your teas and recipes special with dried hops from Terzaluna, the e-commerce dedicated to lovers of high-quality teas, herbal teas, and spices. Don't miss the opportunity to enrich your experience with unique and selected ingredients.
The young spring shoots, known in various Italian regions by dialect names like "luvertin" or "bruscandoli," are a gastronomic delicacy. They can be consumed boiled and simply seasoned, or used in the preparation of risottos, omelets, and soups. Unlike other edible sprouts, hop shoots are tastier the larger they are.
The cosmetic industry exploits the antioxidant and toning properties of hops for formulating skin and hair care products. The phytoestrogens contained in the plant make it particularly suitable for firming and toning treatments, while its antibacterial and brightening properties are used in products for mature skin and light hair. Hops prove to be a useful ingredient in skin teas.
The fibrous and flexible nature of mature stems makes hops suitable for making ropes and rustic ties, demonstrating the versatility of this plant even in the craft field.
In folk medicine, hops are used both internally and externally. Internal use includes the treatment of intestinal inflammations and digestive disorders, while external application is used for treating ulcers and skin abrasions.
The consumption of hops, despite its numerous benefits, requires some important precautions and presents specific contraindications that are essential to know. The presence of phytoestrogens, particularly 8-prenylnaringenin, makes this plant contraindicated for those suffering from hormone-sensitive conditions, including some forms of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. The sedative properties of hops, previously described among its benefits, require particular attention in the case of surgical procedures involving anesthesia.
It is advisable to discontinue its use a few weeks before the operation, always consulting your doctor for specific instructions. The use of this plant is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, due to the lack of extensive studies on its safety during these delicate periods. Additionally, people suffering from depression should avoid its consumption, as it may worsen symptoms.
It is important to note that hops can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. In women, excessive or prolonged use can lead to menstrual cycle alterations, accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and dizziness. In cases of confirmed hypersensitivity to one or more components of the plant, it is necessary to completely avoid its use.
The side effects of hops, although generally moderate, deserve particular attention especially in cases of prolonged or excessive use of this plant. Uncontrolled consumption can manifest through cognitive disorders and dizziness, which can impair normal daily activities.
It is important to note that hops can trigger allergic reactions in predisposed or particularly sensitive individuals. These reactions can range from mild manifestations to more severe responses of the body, which is why it is always advisable to start with reduced doses to test one's individual tolerance. The properties of hops, so appreciated in beer production and herbal medicine, can sometimes result in undesirable effects when the plant is used improperly or in excessive quantities.
The appearance of these symptoms should be a warning sign to reassess the dosage or discontinue use, always consulting a healthcare professional.
The pharmacological properties of hops, particularly its sedative effects, require particular attention when taking certain medications. The most significant interaction occurs with psychotropic drugs, where hops can enhance the sedative and anxiolytic effect of these medications. This synergistic effect also occurs with alcohol, which is why concurrent use is not recommended. An aspect not to be underestimated concerns the interaction with hormonal therapies: the presence of phytoestrogenic compounds in hops can interfere with the effectiveness of these treatments, potentially altering their therapeutic effects. Studies conducted on animal models have also highlighted a significant interaction with barbiturates, where hops have been shown to significantly prolong the sleep times induced by these drugs. For these reasons, it is essential to consult your doctor before using hop-based preparations, especially if you are undergoing pharmacological therapies. This precaution is particularly important for those who regularly take sedatives, antidepressants, or hormonal therapies.
Hops have a fascinating history that dates back to ancient Rome, where this plant was regarded with a mix of fear and respect.
Its scientific name, Humulus lupulus, contains two interesting etymologies that perfectly describe its nature: "Humulus" derives from the Latin "humus" (earth), referring to the plant's tendency to crawl on the ground when it does not find supports to climb. The term "lupulus," on the other hand, has a particularly curious origin: it was Pliny the Elder who coined it, defining hops as the "wolf of the willows". This denomination arose from the observation of the aggressive behavior of the plant which, climbing on willows, could suffocate them until they dried up, just like a wolf attacking its prey.
This predatory behavior of beer hops, although feared in antiquity, has over time become one of the aspects that allowed for controlled cultivation, enabling the development of production techniques that we still use today.
Top-quality hops are now available in our online shop, where you can find a carefully selected range of dried female cones, ideal for preparing teas with relaxing and beneficial properties.
Let yourself be captivated by Terzaluna's dried hops: quality, freshness, and careful selection to add a special touch to your infusions and dishes. Choose Terzaluna, your trusted e-commerce for tea, herbal teas, and fine spices.
