Hop, Common

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Humulus lupulus
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Berries/fruits
Chemicals this herb contains:
Humulene
Lupulinic acid
Lupulon

KNOWN EFFECTS

Inhibits growth and development of germs. Depresses central nervous system.

Miscellaneous information:
If fruit is not fresh, it smells bad. Hops are used extensively in brewing industry. Produces odors because it evaporates at room temperature.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Is used as a tonic. Treats dyspepsia. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Treats insomnia. Causes hallucinations.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

None expected