Hops have been used since the 14th century in the Netherlands in the beer industry. However, it is believed that hops were cultivated as early as the 8th century.
The most commonly used part of the plant is the cone-shaped flower. These small flowers contain nutrients and bitter oils, highly valued in traditional medicine as well as for commercial purposes. Hops bloom from late summer to early autumn.
Hops are a plant rich in nutrients. They contain vitamin A and the B vitamin complex, calcium, copper, iodine, fiber, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium, silicon, sodium, and zinc. They also contain volatile oils, valerianic acid, tannins, flavonoids, and estrogenic substances.
Hops tea is best known for its positive effects on the nerves. A cup of this tea calms the nerves and reduces feelings of anxiety. It is said to strengthen and tone the nervous system, helping to alleviate non-psychiatric nervous disorders such as hysteria.
It has also been used to promote restful sleep, calm the mind, and thus combat insomnia.
This tea helps to relieve pain, reduce muscle spasms, and alleviate painful cramps. Its sedative properties help treat headaches and migraines, relieving tension in the brain and nervous system.
Hops tea aids in stimulating digestion. Its properties help stimulate gastric juice and increase metabolic rate. This is beneficial when suffering from indigestion or heartburn.
It can even improve your appetite, easing abdominal pain, calming peptic ulcers, and helping your stomach stay calm while enjoying meals. It may eliminate harmful elements and parasites that can cause flatulence or even diarrhea.
Hops tea can be a great aid when suffering from a urinary tract infection. It alleviates the pain caused by this infection. It can combat the infection by helping the body eliminate toxins and harmful bacteria.
It cleanses the blood, lowers blood sugar levels, and can also act as a diuretic that reduces fluid retention.
Its antioxidant properties can help improve the immune system, preventing the onset of diseases and fighting against free radicals.
Hops tea is ideal for women going through menopause. This female tonic calms the nerves and mind while alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and insomnia.
The presence of estrogens can also be beneficial for those suffering from constant menstrual issues.
Applied locally, hops tea can be good for the skin, keeping it healthy and clean. It can be used for its antiseptic action to cleanse and heal wounds or other skin injuries. Soak a towel in warm tea and apply it to the inflamed area for a soothing and healing effect. It can also help relieve pain associated with arthritis.
Warning! If you are pregnant, it is best to completely avoid hops tea, as it can cause uterine contractions that stimulate menstruation.
Breastfeeding women should avoid this tea, as it is not recommended for children under 2 years old.
Drinking this tea during the day can cause drowsiness, especially for those who are very tired and unaccustomed to calming teas.
Prolonged use is not recommended.
If you suffer from depression, consult your doctor for the appropriate dosage. Large quantities of tea should be avoided in this situation.
If you suffer from excessive acidity in the stomach, it is best not to drink this tea as it may stimulate digestive fluids and make you feel worse.
Those taking medication to control blood sugar levels should not drink this tea, as it may enhance the effects of the medication, and blood sugar levels could drop to dangerous levels.
