Xanthoforce Hops Extract
Also known as: Hops, Hop plant, Humulus lupulus
Overview
Hops are the female flowers of the *Humulus lupulus* plant, used traditionally in the brewing industry for their bittering and aromatic properties. Beyond their flavor profile, hops contain bioactive compounds including prenylated flavonoids like xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin, which have garnered attention for their health benefits. These extracts are believed to alleviate menopausal symptoms, exhibit anticancer effects, and possess other biological activities such as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Current research includes various in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, although further comprehensive trials are required to establish efficacy and safety fully. Evidence from systematic reviews and clinical trials supports the use of hops extracts, notably xanthohumol, showing moderate to high levels of evidence for several applications, especially in women's health.
Benefits
The key benefits of hops extracts include: 1) Alleviation of menopausal vasomotor symptoms: A systematic review highlighted significant reductions in hot flashes and night sweats among postmenopausal women. 2) Anticancer activity: Xanthohumol has shown potential in inhibiting the proliferation of various cancer cell lines and inducing apoptosis, impacting signaling pathways critical in cancer progression. Both benefits have established evidence with postmenopausal women showing the most significant improvement in symptoms. Effect sizes indicate substantial improvement over placebo, particularly in reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes over a treatment time frame of weeks to months.
How it works
Hops extracts, particularly xanthohumol, exhibit their effects via multiple biological pathways. They inhibit ERK1/2 phosphorylation and modulate Notch signaling crucial for cancer cell regulation. Furthermore, the estrogenic activity of xanthohumol can influence endocrine functions, while its antioxidant properties reduce inflammation, impacting various body systems. These mechanisms contribute to both anticancer and symptom-relieving effects.
Side effects
Hops extracts are generally safe for use; however, they may cause mild side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and drowsiness, reported in more than 5% of users. Less frequently (1-5%), allergic reactions and interactions with medications metabolized through similar pathways might occur. There's a low risk (less than 1%) of severe side effects. Long-term safety data remain limited, necessitating caution among individuals with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers and pregnant or nursing women.
Dosage
For menopausal symptoms relief, dosages of hops extracts typically range from 100 to 500 mg per day, depending on individual health needs and formulations. Studies suggest that doses of 200 to 400 mg per day show optimal efficacy. There are no current maximum safe dose benchmarks; however, exceeding 500 mg has not been adequately studied. Consistent daily intake is recommended, generally taken in capsule or tablet form to enhance absorption.
FAQs
Are hops extracts safe?
Yes, hops extracts are considered safe for most users, but caution is advised for those with estrogen-sensitive conditions.
How should I take hops extract?
Daily consistent dosing is recommended; timing is not critical for effectiveness.
When can I expect results?
Improvements in menopausal symptoms can typically be expected within weeks to a few months of starting treatment.
Can hops be used in place of prescribed medication?
Hops extracts may complement treatment but should not replace prescribed therapies without consulting a healthcare professional.
Research Sources
- https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/6/4/e010734 – This systematic review examined the effects of hops extract on menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women, finding significant improvements in hot flashes and night sweats when compared to placebo.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00530/full – Research on xanthohumol's anticancer activities demonstrated its effectiveness in inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis across several cancer cell lines, implicating key cellular pathways.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fes3.367 – This pharmacokinetic study assessed the absorption and availability of prenylated flavonoids from hops, providing insights relevant to their effective application in supplementation.
