Hops
Hops are best known from beer, but medicinally they’re used as a calming, mildly sedating bitter herb. Hops can support sleep onset and nervous tension, especially when paired with valerian, lemon balm, or chamomile. The key is dose: small amounts can help; too much can feel groggy for some people.
Key Benefits
- Supports sleep onset and relaxation (supportive)
- Supports calm mood and eases tension (supportive)
- Bitter digestive support for heavy meals (traditional)
- Often used in bedtime blends with other calming herbs
Common Issues It May Help With
- Occasional insomnia
- Anxiety and tension
- Restlessness
- Indigestion after heavy meals (supportive)
How To Use (Simple)
- Tea: use small amounts because it’s bitter
- steep 5–10 minutes. Capsules/tincture: follow label directions. Best used in the evening. Often paired with lemon balm or valerian (watch sedation).
Taste / Notes
Very bitter, resinous, herbal.
Evidence Level
Traditional use for calming/sleep is strong; clinical evidence varies. Hops are commonly supported as part of multi-herb sleep formulas.
Cautions
May cause drowsiness—do not drive after use. Avoid combining with alcohol or sedative medications unless clinician-guided. Pregnancy/breastfeeding: avoid medicinal use due to limited safety data.
Interactions
Additive sedation with alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleep meds, opioids, sedating antihistamines Caution stacking with valerian/kava (excess sedation) If on psychiatric meds, consult clinician before routine use
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