Hops

A woody, herbaceous, dioecious and perennial plant with a large fleshy root that has long herbaceous offshoots that are quadrangular in section and that quickly wind around their support - Opposite leaves, with 3 to 5 lobes. The female plants produce catkins which, when they flower, become ovoid cones covered in a fragrant resin called lupulin. The fruits, which contain seeds, are spherical grey achenes.

Latin name

Humulus lupulus L.

Origin

Temperate regions of Europe, Asia and North America.

Used part

The cones.

Active components

Resins (alpha and beta acids): responsible for the bitter flavour and calming effect.

Essential oil (2-Methyl-3-buten-2-OL): provide the typical aroma, but also have a calming action.

Phenols: antioxidants.

Phytoestrogens: have an effect similar to oestrogens. Given that these substances are not always desirable, they are sometimes removed from the extracts.

Usage

Hops are especially known as an ingredient in beer. It is important because it contains bitter substances that also contribute to preservation. The young, underground, pale-coloured shoots can be cooked like asparagus. A delicacy for connoisseurs! Thanks to their bitter flavour, hops were known as a digestif and a blood purifier. However, the calming effect was well known by hops pickers because of their regular contact with the cones. Later on, in the 18th century, the use of pillows filled with hops cones became common practice to induce sleep. There is no sense in making an infusion for its sleep-inducing or calming effects, because the compounds responsible for these effects are not particularly water soluble. Hops contain antioxidants that protect against cell damage. ₁ It has a calming effect on the nervous system and soothes nervous tension and irritability. _2-5 It contributes to optimal relaxation and health and restorative sleep._6-8

Bibliographical references

The health claims that feature on our website in relation to the plants contained in our products are compliant with the list of health claims awaiting final assessment by the Community authorities (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/). However, they may be subject to modification following their assessment by the national competent authorities.

The health claims relating to other nutrients or substances contained in our products that feature on our site are compliant with Regulation No. 432/2012 of the Commission of 16 May 2012 which establishes a list of authorised health claims authorised in relation to food products, other than those in reference to the reduction of the risk of disease as well as community-based development and child health (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/).