Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Hops (Humulus lupulus) contains 8-prenylnaringenin, a potent phytoestrogen that binds to estrogen receptors to alleviate menopausal symptoms. This climbing plant provides estrogenic activity approximately 20 times stronger than other plant estrogens.
CategoryUSDA Nutrient-Dense Foods
GroupHerb
Public Score StatusModerate
Primary Keywordhops benefits
Humulus lupulus (Hops) — botanical close-up
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Origin & History
Natural habitat
Humulus lupulus, commonly known as Hops, is a perennial climbing plant from the Cannabaceae family, native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The supplement ingredient is derived from the dried female flower cones (strobiles), which are rich in bioactive compounds. Production involves creating extracts standardized for key constituents like iso-α-acids and bitter acids.
“Based on the available research, Hops has a history in folkloric medicine, where its derived compounds, such as bitter acids, have been used for centuries for the treatment or prevention of inflammatory disorders.[2]”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Clinical evidence for Hops includes a randomized controlled trial of 120 women which found it effective for menopausal symptoms [3], and a systematic review covering 24 preclinical and 11 clinical studies on its effects on metabolic syndrome, obesity, and inflammation [2]. The provided research dossier does not contain specific PubMed IDs (PMIDs) for these citations.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
The provided research does not specify clinically studied dosage ranges for various forms of Hops. However, a systematic review protocol for menopausal symptoms specified that included studies used treatment durations of at least 4 weeks.[1] Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Nutritional Profile
{"macronutrients": {"protein": "4.4 g per 100 g", "fiber": "16.5 g per 100 g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"Vitamin C": "13 mg per 100 g", "Vitamin E": "0.1 mg per 100 g"}, "minerals": {"Calcium": "38 mg per 100 g", "Iron": "3.5 mg per 100 g", "Magnesium": "60 mg per 100 g", "Potassium": "600 mg per 100 g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"xanthohumol": "0.1-0.5% of dry weight", "8-prenylnaringenin": "20-300 micrograms per gram"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin can be influenced by the form of consumption and individual metabolism. The presence of dietary fats may enhance absorption."}
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Hops' primary bioactive compound 8-prenylnaringenin acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator, binding to both ERα and ERβ receptors with high affinity. This phytoestrogen demonstrates approximately 20-fold greater estrogenic potency than other plant compounds like genistein. The compound also modulates GABA neurotransmission, contributing to mild sedative effects through enhanced chloride channel activity.
Clinical Evidence
A randomized controlled trial with 120 menopausal women showed hops extract significantly reduced hot flashes and other early menopausal symptoms compared to placebo. Clinical studies using standardized hops preparations containing 8-prenylnaringenin have demonstrated improvements in vaginal health and sexual function in postmenopausal women. Most human trials have used doses ranging from 100-500mg daily of standardized extract. The evidence base remains moderate, with most studies being small-scale and short-term.
Safety & Interactions
Hops is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild drowsiness, stomach upset, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Due to its estrogenic activity, hops may interact with hormone replacement therapy and should be avoided by individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers. The supplement may enhance the sedative effects of medications like benzodiazepines and sleep aids. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid hops supplementation due to potential hormonal effects.
Also Known As
Humulus lupulusCommon HopsBeer HopsHop ConesStrobilesEuropean HopsLupulin
Frequently Asked Questions
How much 8-prenylnaringenin is in hops supplements?
Standardized hops extracts typically contain 0.1-0.3% 8-prenylnaringenin by weight. Most clinical studies used preparations providing 100-250mcg of this active compound daily, though actual content varies significantly between products.
How long does it take for hops to work for hot flashes?
Clinical studies show hops may begin reducing hot flash frequency within 6-8 weeks of daily supplementation. The randomized trial with 120 women demonstrated significant symptom improvement after 12 weeks of consistent use at 100mg daily.
Can hops interfere with birth control pills?
Hops may theoretically interfere with hormonal contraceptives due to its phytoestrogen content, though specific interactions haven't been well-studied. Women using birth control should consult healthcare providers before using hops supplements to avoid potential efficacy reduction.
Is hops extract the same as beer hops?
Yes, both come from the same plant (Humulus lupulus), but supplements use concentrated extracts standardized for 8-prenylnaringenin content. Beer contains minimal amounts of active compounds since brewing processes and alcohol content reduce phytoestrogen bioavailability.
Should men avoid hops supplements?
Men should use caution with hops supplements due to their potent estrogenic effects, which may potentially affect testosterone levels or hormone balance. While occasional use is likely safe, men should consult healthcare providers before regular supplementation, especially if they have hormonal concerns.
What is the optimal dosage of hops extract for menopausal symptom relief?
Clinical trials demonstrating efficacy for menopausal symptoms typically used standardized hops extract doses ranging from 100–500 mg daily, often standardized to contain specific levels of 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN). The most commonly studied dose in randomized controlled trials was around 100 mg of standardized extract daily. Individual dosing may vary based on product formulation and standardization, so consulting product labels and healthcare providers is recommended for optimal results.
Is hops safe for women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
While hops contains phytoestrogens that may affect hormonal activity, limited clinical data exist on concurrent use with prescription HRT medications. Women currently using HRT should consult their healthcare provider before adding hops supplements, as potential additive hormonal effects are not fully characterized. Most safety concerns relate to hops' estrogenic properties rather than direct drug interactions.
How does the strength of evidence for hops compare to other herbal remedies for menopause?
Hops has moderate-quality clinical evidence from randomized controlled trials, particularly for hot flash reduction, making it comparatively well-studied among menopausal botanicals. Unlike some traditional remedies with only anecdotal support, at least one RCT with 120 participants demonstrated measurable efficacy for hops in reducing early menopausal symptoms. However, more large-scale trials are needed to establish hops' comparative effectiveness against established pharmaceutical menopause treatments.
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