Hops Reviews

[starratingmulti id=1 tpl=12]Hops is a flowering plant that goes by a number of other names – such as its scientific name, humulus lupulus – and that is often dried in order to take advantage of its wide range of medicinal benefits as well as for its flavor in some food and beverages (such as in beer brewing). Among the most common uses for this ingredient is in the treatment of anxiety, sleep disorders such as insomnia, restlessness, excitability, tension, nervousness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and irritability.

Overall, hops are considered to be safe for the majority of people, which makes it a very attractive option in the treatment of various conditions in which it is helpful, such as in sleeplessness.

Hops have been used in traditional medicine for centuries as an herb that promotes sleep due to its sedating, calming, and sleep inducing effects. Today, a growing number of countries are giving their official approval for its use in treatment of restlessness, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Among the latest was the Commission E in Germany (which is that country’s equivalent to the FDA in the United States).

In the U.S., the FDA has given GRAS status to both hops and hops oil. That term stands for “Generally Recognized As Safe”. That said, it is very important that this ingredient be taken properly. Though it may be safe for the general population to use according to a product’s directions, it can interact with other insomnia drugs and should not be combined with them. Moreover, it is also recommended that hops not be taken when alcoholic beverages have been consumed as this can magnify the impact of the substance, changing its safety levels.

Over the years, hops has been carefully scientifically studied, and it has been shown to be an effective mild sedative. Extensive study has shown that it is effective on its own, but it has also been shown to be even more effective for combating insomnia when it is combined with valerian. This is why a number of natural insomnia remedies include those two ingredients within their formulations.

Due to the positive results in a very long list of studies, hops – particularly when combined with valerian root – many people are now using products that include this ingredient in order to decrease their sleep problems for a more soothing, restful, and deeper sleep. Speak with your healthcare professional before taking this or any other sleep or insomnia remedy to be sure that it is appropriate for you.