# MenoHop (Humulus lupulus)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/menohop
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Humulus lupulus, Common Hops, European Hops, Beer Hops, Hop Strobiles, Lupulin, Houblon

## Overview

MenoHop is a standardized extract of Humulus lupulus (hops) containing the phytoestrogen 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), one of the most potent plant-derived estrogen receptor agonists identified to date. It exerts its primary effects by binding estrogen receptors alpha and beta, supporting [hormonal balance](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) and potentially easing menopausal vasomotor symptoms.

## Health Benefits

• May support healthy estrogen [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) through phytoestrogenic compounds (preliminary evidence from in vitro studies at 0.1-2.5 μg/mL)
• Potentially helps maintain [bone health](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) without uterotrophic effects (animal study evidence only)
• Could influence calcium regulation in cells (94.7% inhibition of calcium uptake at 20 μg/mL in rat pituitary cells)
• Traditional use for sleep support and anxiety relief (historical use evidence, not specific to MenoHop formulation)
• Contains prenylated flavonoids with potential [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties (based on compound profiles, no direct MenoHop studies)

## Mechanism of Action

The primary bioactive compound in MenoHop, 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), binds estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) with a relative binding affinity significantly higher than other dietary phytoestrogens, modulating estrogen-responsive gene transcription. Isoxanthohumol, a secondary prenylated flavonoid in hops, undergoes intestinal microbial conversion to 8-PN, effectively acting as a prodrug that extends estrogenic activity. Additionally, in vitro evidence at concentrations of 0.1–2.5 μg/mL demonstrates 94.7% inhibition of intracellular calcium flux pathways, suggesting a secondary mechanism involving voltage-gated ion channel modulation relevant to thermoregulatory signaling.

## Clinical Summary

In vitro studies demonstrate measurable ERα binding activity of 8-PN at concentrations between 0.1 and 2.5 μg/mL, though translation to human clinical outcomes remains cautious. A small randomized controlled trial (n=36) using a standardized hops extract reported statistically significant reductions in hot flash frequency and Kupperman Index scores after 12 weeks compared to placebo. Animal model data indicate maintenance of [bone mineral density](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) without uterotrophic stimulation, distinguishing 8-PN from synthetic estrogen therapies in preclinical settings, though no large-scale human bone-density trials have been completed. Overall, evidence is preliminary and predominantly derived from in vitro and small clinical studies, warranting larger randomized trials before definitive efficacy claims can be made.

## Nutritional Profile

MenoHop is a standardized extract of Humulus lupulus (hops) female flower cones, formulated specifically for menopausal support. Key bioactive compounds include: • **Prenylflavonoids**: 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), the most potent known phytoestrogen from plants, typically standardized to 50–100 μg per dose in commercial extracts; 6-prenylnaringenin (6-PN) and isoxanthohumol (IX) present as secondary prenylflavonoids. • **Xanthohumol (XN)**: major prenylated chalcone in hops, present at approximately 0.1–1% of dried hop extract weight; acts as a precursor to 8-PN via gut microbial biotransformation and hepatic demethylation. • **Bitter acids**: α-acids (humulones) and β-acids (lupulones) comprising roughly 5–15% of crude hop extract; contribute to [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and mild sedative properties. • **Essential oils**: myrcene, humulene, and caryophyllene (typically 0.5–3% of extract); contribute to aromatic profile and may have mild anxiolytic effects. • **Flavonoids**: quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin in smaller quantities (trace to low mg range). • **Polyphenols**: proanthocyanidins and catechins contributing [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity (ORAC values not well-characterized for isolated hop extracts). • **Phytoestrogenic potency**: 8-PN exhibits binding affinity for ERα (IC₅₀ ~0.1–0.5 μM) and ERβ, making it roughly 50-fold more estrogenically active than other common dietary phytoestrogens such as genistein or daidzein in receptor binding assays. • **Minerals and vitamins**: negligible in extract form, as the product is a concentrated botanical extract rather than a whole food source; trace amounts of potassium, magnesium, and B-vitamins may be present but are not clinically relevant at supplement doses. • **Bioavailability notes**: 8-PN has moderate oral bioavailability with a Tmax of approximately 2–4 hours; isoxanthohumol undergoes significant first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and gut microbial conversion to 8-PN (conversion rates vary considerably among individuals based on [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) composition, estimated at 10–36% conversion). Xanthohumol bioavailability is limited (estimated <5% in human studies) due to rapid glucuronidation and sulfation. Co-administration with food or lipid-based carriers may enhance absorption of prenylated flavonoids. Typical commercial dose delivers 100–250 mg of standardized hop extract per capsule.

## Dosage & Preparation

No human dosage ranges have been established for MenoHop in clinical trials. Animal models used hop extracts at 0.1-2.5 μg/mL in vitro studies. The standardized extract contains approximately 35.78% xanthohumol, 2.18% 6-prenylnaringenin, 1.35% isoxanthohumol, and 0.42% 8-prenylnaringenin. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

MenoHop should be used with caution by individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions including estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids due to the estrogenic activity of 8-prenylnaringenin. Potential drug interactions include additive effects with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as tamoxifen, and oral contraceptives, which may alter [hormonal balance](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) unpredictably. Sedative properties inherent to hops compounds including methylbutenol may potentiate central nervous system depressants including benzodiazepines, alcohol, and sleep medications. MenoHop is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data and theoretical hormonal disruption risk.

## Scientific Research

Limited human clinical evidence exists specifically for MenoHop. One animal study (PMC5736964) tested a chemically similar standardized ethanol extract of spent hops in ovariectomized rats, showing no uterotrophic effects and partial prevention of bone loss. No human randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses for MenoHop or identical branded extracts were identified in the research dossier.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Humulus lupulus strobiles have been used in European traditional medicine since the 9th century for sleep disorders, anxiety, and as a sedative, often incorporated in beer or herbal teas. The European Medicines Agency recognizes traditional use for symptomatic treatment of minor sleep disturbances, though MenoHop's specific formulation for menopausal support represents a modern application.

## Synergistic Combinations

Black cohosh, red clover, vitamin D3, calcium, magnesium

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is 8-prenylnaringenin and why does it matter in MenoHop?

8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN) is a prenylated flavonoid found in Humulus lupulus and is considered the most potent dietary phytoestrogen identified, with ERα binding affinity far exceeding that of genistein or daidzein from soy. In MenoHop, 8-PN is the key active compound responsible for estrogen receptor modulation, making standardization of 8-PN content critical to the supplement's efficacy. Its precursor isoxanthohumol is also present and converted to 8-PN by gut microbiota, meaning individual microbiome differences can influence how much active compound a person actually produces.

### Can MenoHop help with hot flashes?

Preliminary clinical evidence suggests MenoHop may reduce hot flash frequency; a 12-week randomized controlled trial in 36 menopausal women using a standardized hops extract reported significant decreases in Kupperman Index scores, which measure composite menopausal symptom burden including hot flashes. The proposed mechanism involves 8-PN's agonism at hypothalamic estrogen receptors, which help regulate the thermoregulatory set point disrupted during menopause. However, the evidence base remains limited by small sample sizes and a lack of multi-center replication, so MenoHop should not yet be considered a confirmed alternative to conventional therapies.

### Is MenoHop safe for women with a history of breast cancer?

MenoHop is generally contraindicated for women with a history of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer due to the estrogenic activity of 8-prenylnaringenin, which binds ERα and could theoretically stimulate hormone-sensitive tissue. While some phytoestrogens show selective receptor modulation that may be neutral or even protective, no clinical safety data specifically for MenoHop in breast cancer survivors has been established. Women with any hormone-sensitive cancer history should consult an oncologist before using this or any phytoestrogenic supplement.

### How does MenoHop differ from soy isoflavones for menopause?

The key distinction is binding potency: 8-prenylnaringenin in MenoHop demonstrates ERα binding affinity estimated at 0.1–10% of estradiol, which significantly exceeds that of soy isoflavones genistein and daidzein, typically binding at 0.01–0.1% of estradiol's affinity. This means MenoHop may produce a more pronounced estrogenic signal at lower doses compared to soy-based supplements. Additionally, MenoHop's preclinical data suggest bone-supportive effects without uterotrophic stimulation, a property not consistently demonstrated with soy isoflavones, though direct head-to-head human trials between the two are lacking.

### What is the typical dosage of MenoHop and how long before results are seen?

Clinical studies on standardized hops extracts relevant to MenoHop have typically used daily doses providing approximately 100–300 mg of standardized hops dry extract, with 8-PN content varying by product formulation. The 12-week randomized trial showing Kupperman Index improvements suggests a minimum trial period of 8–12 weeks is needed to assess symptom response, as phytoestrogenic effects accumulate gradually. No universally established dosing guideline exists, and consumers should look for products standardized to a defined 8-PN or total prenylated flavonoid percentage rather than relying solely on raw herb weight on the label.

### Does MenoHop interact with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or birth control medications?

MenoHop contains phytoestrogenic compounds that may interact with hormone-based medications, though clinical data is limited. Women currently taking HRT, oral contraceptives, or hormone-sensitive medications should consult their healthcare provider before use to avoid potential additive or antagonistic effects. The ingredient's mechanism of action on estrogen metabolism warrants caution with concurrent hormonal therapies.

### What clinical evidence supports MenoHop's effectiveness compared to a placebo?

MenoHop has shown promise in preliminary studies, but most evidence comes from in vitro and animal models rather than large-scale human clinical trials. Published human studies are limited and show mixed results for symptom relief, making it important to set realistic expectations about efficacy. The quality of evidence is generally considered preliminary, and more rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to establish definitive benefit.

### Is MenoHop safe for women with thyroid conditions or those taking thyroid medications?

There is insufficient clinical data specifically addressing MenoHop safety in women with thyroid disorders or on thyroid replacement therapy. Since hop compounds may influence hormonal metabolism broadly, women with thyroid conditions should discuss MenoHop use with their healthcare provider and monitor thyroid function if they choose to supplement. Potential interactions have not been thoroughly studied in this population.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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