Hops, botanically known as Humulus lupulus, are a plant that has been used for centuries primarily to add bitterness, flavor, and aroma to beer. However, hops have a wide range of health benefits that are not widely known.

Hops are packed full of phytochemicals that have a range of health properties. In this article, we will highlight the incredible health benefits of hops.

1. Anti-inflammatory properties of hops

Many studies have shown that hops contain potent anti-inflammatory properties. The primary active compound in hops is xanthohumol, which has been proven to reduce inflammation markers in the body.

This makes hops a potent tool in the fight against chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Adding hops to your diet can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health.

2. Hops for better sleep

To get a good night’s sleep, hops can be beneficial. Hops contain a sedative compound called methylbutenol. Methylbutenol helps to relax the body and promote sleep.

Hops’ use for sleep goes back to ancient times where people would stuff their pillows with dried hops to promote sleep. Drinking a cup of hop tea before bed can help you get a peaceful and restful night’s sleep.

3. Anxiety and depression relief with hops

Another benefit of hops is its ability to relieve anxiety and depression. Hops contain compounds that activate the brain’s GABA receptors. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of neurons in the brain.

This helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

4. Hops can help with weight loss

Hops can play a role in weight loss as well. Xanthohumol, the primary active compound in hops, has been shown to have anti-obesity effects. Xanthohumol can inhibit the accumulation of fat in the body.

In one study, mice given a high-fat diet but with xanthohumol added to their food gained less weight than those who did not receive xanthohumol.

5. Hops can help improve digestion

Hops have been proven to have digestive benefits. Hops contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve gut health. As a result, hops can help reduce digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

Additionally, the bitter acids found in hops can help stimulate the digestive system.

6. Hops may reduce the risk of cancer

Another significant health benefit of hops is that it may reduce the risk of cancer. Xanthohumol, the primary active compound in hops, has been found to have anti-cancer properties.

Studies have shown that xanthohumol can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro. Hops, therefore, may play an important role in cancer prevention.

7. Strong bones with hops

As we age, our bones become weaker, which can lead to osteoporosis. Hops may help prevent osteoporosis by strengthening bones. Hops contain flavonoids that have an estrogen-like effect in the body.

These flavonoids can help to increase bone density and prevent bone loss.

8. Hops can reduce the risk of heart disease

Hops can also help reduce the risk of heart disease. The anti-inflammatory properties of hops can help reduce the build-up of plaque in the arteries. Additionally, xanthohumol has been found to have cardioprotective properties.

It can reduce oxidative stress, lower LDL cholesterol levels, and improve blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

9. Hops antioxidants to fight aging

Hops contain antioxidants that can fight against aging. One of the primary antioxidants found in hops is alpha acids. Alpha acids can help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which is a major contributor to aging.

10. Hops for healthy skin

Finally, hops can help promote healthy skin. Hops contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation.

Additionally, some studies have found that hops can protect against UV radiation damage and promote collagen synthesis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hops have incredible health benefits that are often overlooked.

Adding hops to your diet can help reduce inflammation in the body, improve sleep, reduce anxiety and depression, aid in weight loss, improve digestion, reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, fight against aging, and promote healthy skin. So, go ahead and enjoy a glass of beer or a cup of hop tea to reap the benefits of hops.