Humulus lupulus flower ext. dry conc.
Also known as: Hop, hops flower, Humulus lupulus flower extract dry concentrate, 8-prenylnaringenin, Humulus lupulus
Overview
Humulus lupulus flower extract is derived from the female flowers (cones) of the hop plant, traditionally recognized for its use in brewing and herbal medicine. This botanical extract contains several bioactive compounds, most notably prenylated flavonoids like 8-prenylnaringenin, which is a potent phytoestrogen. The primary applications of hop extract include the management of menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, due to its estrogenic activity. Emerging research also suggests potential anticancer effects, although these findings are predominantly preclinical. Additionally, traditional uses point to mild sedative and sleep-promoting properties. The research landscape for Humulus lupulus is maturing, with an increasing number of clinical trials and systematic reviews, particularly in the context of menopausal symptom relief, supporting its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
The most well-established benefit of Humulus lupulus extract is the relief of menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS). A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that hop extract, specifically its active compound 8-prenylnaringenin, significantly reduces the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women aged 40-60 years with elevated FSH levels. The observed effect sizes indicate clinically meaningful symptom reduction compared to placebo, with high-quality evidence supporting this benefit. Furthermore, preclinical research, including a panoramic meta-analysis of in vitro studies, suggests that hop-derived compounds possess antiproliferative (anticancer) activity against various cancer cell lines. This indicates potential chemopreventive properties, though these findings are currently limited to laboratory settings and require extensive clinical validation. Traditional uses also suggest mild sedative and sleep-promoting effects, but robust clinical evidence for these benefits is currently limited.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Humulus lupulus extract, particularly in alleviating menopausal symptoms, is attributed to 8-prenylnaringenin. This compound acts as a potent phytoestrogen, meaning it can bind to and modulate estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) in the body. By interacting with these receptors, 8-prenylnaringenin mimics some of the effects of endogenous estrogen, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency, such as vasomotor symptoms. The antiproliferative effects observed in preclinical studies are thought to involve the modulation of cell cycle progression and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. However, the precise molecular targets and pathways can vary depending on the specific hop compound and cancer type. The bioavailability of these prenylated flavonoids is moderate, and their efficacy can be influenced by metabolic processes and absorption rates within the body.
Side effects
Humulus lupulus flower extract is generally considered well-tolerated in clinical trials, particularly when used for menopausal symptom relief. The reported side effects are typically mild and infrequent, with gastrointestinal discomfort being among the most common. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been consistently reported in the reviewed randomized controlled trials. However, due to its phytoestrogenic activity, caution is advised for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as certain types of cancer (e.g., breast cancer), or during pregnancy and lactation, as its effects on these populations have not been thoroughly established. While generally safe for short- to medium-term use, long-term safety data are still limited. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Cannabaceae family should also exercise caution.
Dosage
Clinical trials investigating Humulus lupulus extract for menopausal symptoms have typically utilized standardized extracts containing quantified amounts of 8-prenylnaringenin. Recommended daily dosages generally range from 100 to 250 mg of such standardized extracts. The optimal dosage can vary significantly depending on the specific extract's standardization and the concentration of active compounds. Administration is typically once daily via oral route. There is no officially established maximum safe dose; therefore, it is recommended to adhere to the dosages that have been studied in clinical trials to ensure both efficacy and safety. Users should always follow the specific instructions provided on the product label, as formulations and concentrations can differ between manufacturers.
FAQs
Is hop extract safe for long-term use?
Current randomized controlled trials indicate good short- to medium-term safety for hop extract. However, long-term safety data extending beyond several months are still limited, warranting continued research.
Can hop extract be used instead of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
Hop extract may serve as a safer alternative for managing mild to moderate menopausal vasomotor symptoms, but it is generally considered less potent than conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
How soon do effects appear when taking hop extract?
Symptom improvement, particularly for menopausal hot flashes and night sweats, is typically observed within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily administration.
Does hop extract cause hormonal side effects?
Due to its phytoestrogen content, mild estrogenic effects may occur. However, these are generally well tolerated and are the basis for its efficacy in menopausal symptom relief.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12388921/ – This panoramic meta-analysis of in vitro studies investigated the antiproliferative activity of hop compounds on various cancer cell lines. It concluded that hop compounds exhibit significant anticancer effects across diverse cancer types, with meta-regression supporting methodological consistency. The study highlights the preclinical potential of hop compounds as chemopreventive agents, though it emphasizes the need for clinical validation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27105715/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluated the efficacy of hop extract for menopausal vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women. It found that hop extract, particularly due to 8-prenylnaringenin, significantly reduces the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats compared to placebo. The study utilized the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, indicating high quality evidence for its findings, despite some heterogeneity in extract standardization across trials.