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Hops Strobiles

Also known as: Humulus lupulus L., Hops strobiles, Hops flowers, Hop cones, Humulus lupulus

Overview

Hops strobiles, derived from the female flower clusters of the hop plant *Humulus lupulus L.*, have a long history of use in brewing and are now recognized for their potential medicinal properties. These flowers contain bioactive compounds, most notably 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), a potent phytoestrogen, along with various bitter acids. Hops extracts are being investigated for their ability to alleviate menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS), reduce anxiety and depression, and potentially modulate the gut microbiota. Research on hops is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews focusing on menopausal symptom relief. The quality of evidence varies, but includes meta-analyses and well-controlled clinical trials, supporting its potential as a botanical supplement.

Benefits

Hops strobiles offer several potential health benefits supported by varying degrees of scientific evidence. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that hops extracts can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women, showing clinically meaningful improvements compared to placebo [1][4]. This effect is largely attributed to the phytoestrogen 8-PN. Furthermore, a 4-week RCT demonstrated that a hops dry extract can significantly reduce self-reported depression, anxiety, and stress scores [5]. In vitro studies suggest that hops extracts can alter gut bacterial composition, potentially increasing beneficial bacteria like *Akkermansia* and *Bifidobacterium*, suggesting possible prebiotic or antimicrobial effects [2]. However, human clinical trials are needed to confirm these gut-related benefits.

How it works

Hops exert their effects through multiple mechanisms. The phytoestrogenic activity of 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN) allows it to bind to estrogen receptors, mimicking estrogen and alleviating menopausal hot flashes [1][4]. Hops constituents may also modulate neurotransmitter systems involved in mood regulation, contributing to anxiolytic and antidepressant effects [5]. Additionally, hops bitter acids and polyphenols can influence gut microbiota composition through antimicrobial and prebiotic mechanisms, affecting metabolic cross-feeding and gut barrier function [2]. The bioavailability of 8-PN and other bioactives is moderate, and their metabolism by gut microbiota may influence systemic levels and effects.

Side effects

Hops extracts are generally well-tolerated in clinical trials, with no serious adverse events reported. Common side effects are mild and infrequent, potentially including gastrointestinal discomfort or sedation. Due to their phytoestrogenic and CNS effects, hops may interact with sedatives or hormone therapies, warranting caution. Hops are contraindicated in individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers or during pregnancy due to their estrogenic activity. While postmenopausal women are the primary population studied, the safety of hops in other populations is less established. It is important to consider these potential risks and interactions before using hops supplements.

Dosage

Clinical studies investigating the effects of hops on menopausal symptoms have used standardized hop extracts delivering approximately 100-250 mg/day of active compounds, particularly 8-PN [1][4]. Benefits on hot flashes and mood are typically observed after 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation. Dry extracts standardized for 8-PN content are preferred for consistent dosing. Co-administration with food may influence bioavailability, and gut microbiota status may affect metabolism. While specific upper limits and safety thresholds are not definitively established, it is advisable to adhere to the dosages used in clinical trials and consult with a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Is hops extract effective for hot flashes?

Yes, meta-analyses confirm that hops extract can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes, making it a potentially effective natural remedy.

Can hops help with anxiety or depression?

Preliminary RCT evidence suggests that hops may have beneficial effects on mood, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Are there risks with hormone-sensitive conditions?

Due to its phytoestrogen content, hops should be avoided by individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as certain types of cancer, as it may stimulate estrogen receptors.

How long until effects are seen?

The effects of hops extract, particularly for hot flashes and mood, are typically observed after 4 weeks or more of consistent use, so patience is important.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27105715/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of hops extracts on menopausal vasomotor symptoms. The study found that hops extracts significantly reduced hot flashes compared to placebo, demonstrating a clear effect size and statistical significance. The authors noted heterogeneity in extract standardization as a limitation but concluded that the evidence supports the efficacy of hops for managing menopausal symptoms.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6769549/ – This in vitro study investigated the impact of hops extracts on human gut bacterial communities. The results showed that hops extracts modulated gut microbiota composition in a dose-dependent manner, increasing beneficial genera like *Akkermansia* and *Bifidobacterium* while also increasing some potentially pathogenic bacteria. The authors suggested that these findings warrant further clinical validation to explore the potential prebiotic or antimicrobial effects of hops.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-health-benefits-of-hops-89058 – This article provides an overview of the health benefits of hops, including its potential to alleviate anxiety, insomnia, and menopausal symptoms. It highlights the presence of compounds like 8-prenylnaringenin, which exhibits estrogen-like activity, and emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the therapeutic potential of hops.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00345 – This pharmacological review details the multiple biological targets of hops constituents. It confirms the phytoestrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroactive effects of hops, which are relevant to menopausal symptom relief and mood modulation. The review supports the mechanistic plausibility of clinical findings, suggesting that hops can influence various physiological processes.
https://www.naturalhealthresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Hops-Humulus-lupulus-L.-Dry-Extract-May-Help-Alleviate-Anxiety-Depression-and-Stress.pdf – This study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that investigated the effects of hops dry extract on anxiety, depression, and stress. The results showed statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in DASS-21 depression and stress scores after 4 weeks of hops extract supplementation. The authors reported no serious adverse events, suggesting that hops extract may be a safe and effective option for improving mood.