Why Hops Are More Than Just for Brewing
Hops (Humulus lupulus) are firmly associated with brewing beer in most people's minds. But did you know that hops are a true medicinal plant with impressive health benefits? For centuries, they have been used in natural medicine – from calming the nerves to aiding digestion. In this article, you will learn why hops are a true super herb and how you can use them for your health.
Table of Content
- Hops: An Ancient Medicinal Plant with Modern Insights
- What Makes Hops So Valuable? Key Ingredients
- Bitter Compounds – Good for Digestion & Nerves
- Calming Effect on Body & Mind
- Natural Support for Women
- Antibacterial & Preservative Effects
- Faster Effects Through Absorption via the Oral Mucosa
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Hops
Hops: An Ancient Medicinal Plant with Modern Insights
The history of hops dates back to the 8th century when they were cultivated and valued as a remedy in the Middle Ages. The Benedictine nuns used hops for relaxation, while Hildegard of Bingen recognized their effect on the stomach and mood in the 12th century. Later herbal books such as the Herbarius Moguntinus (1484), the Garden of Health (1485), or the Hortus Sanitatis (1491) described hops as pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory.
Today, modern studies confirm that hops offer far more than just flavor for beer. Notably, the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) has recognized hop extracts as pharmaceutical preparations – meaning their effects are scientifically validated!
What Makes Hops So Valuable? Key Ingredients
Hops belong to the cannabis family (Cannabaceae) and were named Medicinal Plant of the Year in 2007. Their valuable benefits make them a true medicinal plant:
Bitter Compounds – Good for Digestion & Nerves
Hops contain humulone and lupulone – bitter compounds that not only give beer its characteristic taste but also stimulate digestion and have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Calming Effect on Body & Mind
The essential oils in hops bind to the melatonin receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and sleep. Especially in combination with valerian, hops have a strong effect on sleep disorders and inner restlessness. Since about 1700, hop cones have been specifically used for relaxation and as a sleep aid.
Natural Support for Women
The phytoestrogens contained in hops act similarly to estrogen and can support hormonal balance, particularly during menopause. Women experiencing mild hot flashes or mood swings may benefit from hops.
Antibacterial & Preservative Effects
Hops have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes them valuable not only for gut health but also for aromatherapy and natural preservation – both in foods and oral care products such as oil-pulling.
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Faster Effects Through Absorption via the Oral Mucosa
Hops can also be absorbed directly through the oral mucosa, making their effects particularly fast and efficient.
Why Is Absorption via the Mucosa So Effective?
The oral mucosa is highly vascularized and allows direct absorption of active ingredients into the bloodstream – bypassing the digestive system. This leads to quicker and more efficient effects.
Mae Mae Care Calm & Sleep: Relaxation via the Oral Mucosa
Our product Mae Mae Care Calm & Sleep contains gently integrated hops, which, in combination with essential oils like lavender, valerian, ashwagandha, and lemon balm, provides a calming effect. Thanks to its special formulation, the body can gently relax – making it perfect as part of an evening routine for better sleep.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Hops
1. How do hops affect the body?
Hops have a calming, sleep-promoting, and digestion-enhancing effect. Their bitter compounds stimulate gastric juice production, while their essential oils bind to melatonin receptors in the brain, inducing relaxation.
2. Can hops help with sleep?
Yes! Hops are a well-known remedy for sleep disorders. They work particularly well in combination with valerian and can help improve sleep onset and quality.
3. How long does it take for hops to take effect?
- For teas or capsules, the effects occur after about 30–60 minutes.
- Hop extracts in Mae Mae Care Calm & Sleep, absorbed through the oral mucosa, can work within minutes.
4. Is hops safe for daily use?
Yes, hops are considered safe and well-tolerated. There is no evidence of side effects with long-term use in recommended doses.
5. Why is hops included in Mae Mae Care Calm & Sleep?
Hops provide a pleasant, calming effect that is gently absorbed through the oral mucosa. In combination with lavender, valerian, lemon balm, and ashwagandha, it supports a natural evening routine for better sleep.
A Natural Ritual for Better Sleep
With Mae Mae Care Calm & Sleep, hops have been carefully incorporated to maximize their calming effects. The combination of natural ingredients helps unwind at the end of the day – completely free of artificial additives or harsh chemicals.
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