Estro8pn Hops Extract
Also known as: Hops, Estro8pn Hops Extract, 8-Prénylnaringenin, Phytoestrogenic herbal supplement, *Humulus lupulus*
Overview
*Humulus lupulus*, commonly known as hops, is a flowering plant used predominantly in the brewing industry. This plant is notable for several bioactive compounds, particularly prenylated flavonoids like 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), which possess estrogen-like properties. Hops extract is recognized for its potential health benefits, particularly in alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and addressing female sexual dysfunction. The extract is rich in phytoestrogens that exhibit a strong affinity for estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ). Current research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, supports its efficacy and safety with moderate levels of evidence, although further research is still needed for conclusive long-term data.
Benefits
One of the most notable benefits of hops extract is its ability to significantly reduce menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated a 41% reduction in hot flash frequency among women using hops extract compared to placebo. Additionally, it has been shown to improve sexual dysfunction, with studies indicating that vaginal hop extract is as effective as vaginal estradiol in enhancing sexual function without significant differences in Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores. Other potential benefits include a role in osteoporosis prevention by influencing bone health and anticancer effects through inhibition of estrogen-induced malignant transformations in mammary cells. The primary demographic that benefits from hops extract is menopausal women, with clinical significance observed within a few weeks to months of treatment.
How it works
Hops extract, particularly the compound 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), mimics the effects of endogenous estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, with a stronger affinity for ERα. This binding engages biological pathways that alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as reducing vasomotor symptoms through modulation of hormone levels. Additionally, hops phytoestrogens influence the hypothalamo-pituitary-uterine axis, leading to decreased serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, and an increase in serum prolactin. These actions collectively contribute to the beneficial effects on menopausal health and sexual function.
Side effects
Hops extract is generally considered safe for short-term use, with most studies indicating minimal adverse effects. Common side effects are not well documented, but reported instances are rare. Uncommon side effects may occur in about 1-5% of users, particularly in those with sensitivities or interactions with other medications. The substance may have potential interactions with hormonal therapies and drugs metabolized by similar pathways as 8-PN, prompting caution among individuals taking such medications. Women with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, should avoid use due to a lack of comprehensive safety data. Overall, while the available literature shows no significant rare side effects, long-term safety has not been thoroughly evaluated, highlighting the need for further research on prolonged usage.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of hops extract for alleviating menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction has not been firmly established, though studies typically utilize dosages ranging from 100 mg to 500 mg of standardized hops extract daily. Optimal dosages have yet to be clearly defined. Clinical trials suggest that doses as high as 500 mg per day are safe and have not resulted in significant adverse effects. There are no specific timing recommendations, but consistent daily or twice-weekly intake has been studied. Both vaginal gels and oral supplements have been employed in clinical settings. The oral bioavailability of 8-PN is notably high, surpassing that of its isomer 6-PN, facilitating effective absorption.
FAQs
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits from hops extract can typically be observed within a few weeks to months of consistent use.
Are there any interactions with other medications?
Yes, potential interactions may occur with hormonal therapies or drugs metabolized via similar pathways to 8-PN.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data on hops extract are limited; caution is advised regarding its prolonged use.
What are the potential side effects?
Generally, no significant adverse effects are reported, but long-term safety has not been well established.
Can it be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is recommended to avoid hops extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/9528335 – This randomized clinical trial investigated the efficacy of vaginal hops extract on postmenopausal sexual dysfunction, concluding that it shows comparable effectiveness to estradiol, though further studies are needed due to its limited sample size.
- https://www.synapse.koreamed.org/articles/1092766 – A pilot study evaluating Hops for menopausal vasomotor symptoms showed significant reductions in hot flash frequency, highlighting the need for larger-scale studies to confirm its effectiveness.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/23/3/660 – This review article provided a comprehensive overview of therapeutic perspectives surrounding 8-prenylnaringenin, detailing its actions as well as potential benefits for bone health and cancer prevention, emphasizing its promising role in menopausal symptom management.
