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Hops Cone Extract

Also known as: hops, hops cone extract, hop extract, Humulus lupulus

Overview

Humulus lupulus, widely known as hops, are flowering cones from the hop plant, primarily recognized for their role in brewing beer. Beyond this traditional use, hops extract has emerged as a supplement for dietary and cosmetic purposes due to its bioactive compounds, including α-acids, β-acids, xanthohumol, and 8-prenylnaringenin. These unique components exhibit a variety of health benefits such as antimicrobial properties and the ability to alleviate menopausal symptoms by influencing gut hormones. Hops extract is available in different forms, such as liquid and powdered concentrates, each offering distinct active components that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Although existing studies yield promising results regarding the effectiveness of hops extract, there is a call for more systematic reviews to better define its clinical relevance and effectiveness in cosmetic applications.

Benefits

Hops extracts confer several evidence-based benefits: (1) **Antimicrobial Properties**: The extract's β-acids and humulinic acid are effective against bacteria like *Staphylococcus aureus* at low concentrations (1.4 μM), indicating potential for infection control. (2) **Menopausal Symptoms Relief**: Preliminary studies suggest a positive safety profile and effective alleviation of symptoms in peri- to postmenopausal women. (3) **Weight Management**: Animal research hints at potential benefits for weight control during high-fat diets, though further human studies are necessary to validate these claims. Strong evidence supports the antimicrobial properties, while further large-scale studies are needed to confirm the benefits regarding menopausal symptoms.

How it works

The antimicrobial effects of hops are primarily attributed to its resin components, particularly α-acids and β-acids, which act by disrupting bacterial cell membranes. These components serve as mobile-carrier ionophores, enabling efficient transport across membranes. Additionally, hops' bioactive compounds may influence gut peptide hormone secretion, crucial for appetite regulation, and interact with metabolic pathways, notably enhancing cytochrome P450 enzyme activity (CYP3A4/5) without causing significant metabolic obstruction.

Side effects

Hops extracts are generally safe for both dietary and cosmetic use, although adverse effects can occur, particularly with elevated dosages. Potential side effects include estrogenic effects and skin irritation. While common adverse effects are infrequent, users may experience skin irritation or estrogen-related symptoms from 8-prenylnaringenin. There are also concerns about potential genotoxicity, but such risks appear minimal at standard intake levels. Caution is advised for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions and pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the potential for amplified estrogenic impacts.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for hops extracts varies based on the desired outcomes: for antimicrobial use, effective concentrations are around 1.4 μM. For managing menopausal symptoms, standardized extracts are typically taken up to twice daily. There lacks a universal maximum safe dosage; therefore, careful monitoring is necessary to mitigate the risk of estrogenic or genotoxic effects. While flexible dosing may apply for antimicrobial effects, consistency is vital for managing menopausal symptoms, especially given that bioavailability may differ according to the extraction methods used.

FAQs

Are hops extracts safe?

Generally, hops extracts are considered safe but may cause dermal irritation or estrogenic effects at high concentrations. Monitoring is recommended.

What’s the best time to take hops for menopausal symptoms?

Consistent dosing (e.g., twice daily) is advised for managing menopausal symptoms. Exact timing is not critical for antimicrobial applications.

How quickly can I expect results from hops?

Antimicrobial effects are immediate, while the benefits for menopausal symptoms may take longer to manifest.

Are there any common misconceptions about hops extracts?

Some believe hops are completely free of side effects, but they can have adverse effects, especially at higher doses.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5658314/ – This study reviewed hops extracts revealing antimicrobial properties attributed to specific components within the resin. It emphasizes the need for further trials to establish the clinical efficacy of hops in various applications.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5634534/ – This article explores the hormonal effects of hops, specifically their ability to influence menopausal symptoms in women. It concludes that while hops present potential benefits, more extensive clinical research is necessary.