Most people associate hops with beer because, for so many years, the plant has been used in brewing beer. In fact, the plant was first discovered as far back as the 11th century and has always been a staple in the beer-making industry.
Currently, the plant is a vital part of the medical industry as it has the potential to alleviate arthritis, insomnia, ulcers, headaches, and diabetes. The other benefits of hops include maintaining oral health, improving skin appearance, aiding weight loss, treating cancer, supporting healthy scalp, treating respiratory problems, and improving psychological health.
The female flowers of hops are a storehouse of lots of nutrients and commonly used to prepare certain types of medicines. The plant comes in a variety of forms, including as tincture, tea made with dried hop leaves, and extract.
The Health Benefits of Hops
What some people are, however, unaware of is that hops also have a number of incredible health benefits and you do not need to gulp down a glass of beer to get these benefits.
Facilitates Weight Loss
Incorporating hops herbal tea into your daily diet helps in maintaining body weight. In fact, the chemicals contained in the herb improves metabolism which, in turn, helps you to shed extra pounds.
Hops are highly recommended for people who suffer from obesity as those on weight loss journey often have limited food choices. Drinking hops tea is effective as you will not have to worry about packing up calories or fat.
Alleviates Respiratory Problems
Hops flowers are recommended for common respiratory disorders such as inflammation and irritation. It soothes irritation and reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract. Additionally, the properties in the hops flowers are helpful in effectively alleviating coughs and congestion in the chest.
Just sipping on hops tea can stave off respiratory infections. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the real cause of the respiratory problem.
Aids Digestion
Indigestion can result in a lot of discomforts that can adversely affect overall health. Thankfully, hops herbal tea can aid proper digestion and help with alleviating constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. It does this by regulating bowel movements and softening the stool.
The consuming freshly brewed hop tea can give instant results but you should also see a doctor if you experience dehydration or dizziness after taking the tea.
Cures Headache
Hops help to treat headaches by soothing tensed nerves. The herb is believed to possess a sedative effect which affects psychological health by easing headaches and facilitating the circulation of blood in the brain. Also, when the herb is consumed on a regular basis, it relieves tensed neck and shoulder muscles stopping an onset of paranoia and dementia. A cup of hops tea just before retiring for the night can help alleviate pain and induce sleep.
Treats Ulcers
When mixed with essential herbs, dried hops flowers mixed can be used in the treatment of ulcers and heartburns. The plant’s compounds are effective in eliminating bacteria that lead to ulcers. It is important to note that while there are no potential adverse effects of the plant, you should still consult with a medical professional before considering self-medication.
Improves Oral Health
The herb contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to sustain overall oral health. It provides relief from a toothache as well as wards off symptoms connected with other oral problems. By incorporating the herb into your daily regimen, along with regular visits to a dentist, the risks of oral problems can be reduced.
Treats Cancer
Of course, we all know that antioxidants are vital for fighting cancerous cells and free radicals. Thankfully, hops contain antioxidants and are effective for treating different kinds of cancer such as colon and ovarian cancer. However, more studies are needed to ascertain its effectiveness in the treatment of cancers.
Helps to Maintain Youthful Skin
Maintaining a glowing and youthful skin is easier than ever. As a matter of fact, hops are a part of herbal medications widely used to improve the appearance of the skin. It contains a substantial amount of antioxidants which help to combat any damage to skin cells.
These damages may result in saggy skin and premature wrinkles. When the immune system gets adequate amounts of antioxidants, the skin is effectively protected from damage. The antioxidants in hops make the skin shiny, radiant, and clear.
Good for Scalp Health
Eating foods that are rich in antioxidants is essential as they help in the treating of various health problems, including infections on the scalp. Hops are also popular for strengthening the hair follicles and prevent hair breakage. The herb also contains a few some vitamins that promote hair growth within a short time.
This is one reason why some professional dermatologists suggest using beer shampoo to wash the hair. It is a hair care regime that has been tried and proven very effective. However, people who suffer constant scalp irritation need to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get effective treatment.
Supports Psychological Health
Hops contain a compound known as xanthohumol. The compound protects the cells of the brain against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is able to cause damage to the body’s vital organs and result in serious diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Hops also inhibit the brain from suffering oxidative stress by enhancing cognition as well.
Precautions and Side Effects
Generally, hops flower is considered safe when taken at the recommended dosage. However, it is worth mentioning that this does not mean that drinking beer containing hops is safe.
Also, while hops may be beneficial for your health, its use may also result in certain mild side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting and even more serious one like depression and seizure. Hop is also not safe for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and infants.
The Bottom Line
Evidently, herbs are free of preservatives and chemicals which may have negative effects on overall health. So, when herbal products like hops are incorporated into your diet, they help to maintain good health and reduce the risks of chronic diseases.
However, it is advisable to avoid an excessive consumption of natural products as they can cause damage to vital organs of the body. Also, consult with your healthcare provider and avoid self-medication.
