Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Hops Flower Extract

Also known as: Humulus lupulus L., Hops, Hop flower extract, Humulus lupulus

Overview

Hops flower extract is derived from the flowers (cones) of the hop plant, *Humulus lupulus*, traditionally used in brewing beer. It contains bioactive compounds such as prenylflavonoids (notably 8-prenylnaringenin, 8-PN) and bitter acids, which exhibit phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential metabolic effects. The extract is primarily used for managing menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS), improving sleep quality, and possibly supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health. Research on hops is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, particularly focusing on menopausal symptom relief and antioxidant properties. The quality of evidence varies but includes well-conducted RCTs and meta-analyses with adequate sample sizes. Hops flower extract is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.

Benefits

Hops flower extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Primarily, it significantly reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women due to the phytoestrogen 8-PN, which is a potent plant estrogen. A meta-analysis showed statistically significant hot flash reduction at 4, 8, and 12 weeks compared to placebo, indicating clinically meaningful relief. Additionally, hops contain antioxidants like xanthohumol, which exhibit radical scavenging and lipid oxidation inhibition, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. A controlled study also suggests hops extract modulates gut peptides involved in appetite regulation, potentially aiding weight management, though more research is needed. While not covered in the primary sources, other data suggest hops may improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.

How it works

Hops flower extract works through several mechanisms. Its key compound, 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), binds to estrogen receptors, mimicking estrogen and alleviating menopausal symptoms by modulating hormonal pathways. Prenylflavonoids like xanthohumol neutralize free radicals and inhibit pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, reducing oxidative damage and inflammation. The extract also influences the secretion of gut peptides (CCK, GLP-1, PYY) that regulate appetite and satiety, potentially affecting energy balance. The bioavailability of hops compounds varies with extraction method and formulation; many act synergistically, complicating direct extrapolation from in vitro antioxidant assays to clinical effects.

Side effects

Hops extract is generally well-tolerated in clinical studies, with no major safety concerns reported at typical doses. Common side effects are mild and uncommon, including gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions. Due to its phytoestrogenic and mild sedative effects, potential interactions with sedatives or hormone therapies warrant caution. Use in hormone-sensitive cancers or during pregnancy should be avoided unless supervised by a healthcare provider. It is important to note that while hops is generally safe, individuals with estrogen-sensitive conditions should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before use. Long-term safety data is limited, so caution is advised with extended use.

Dosage

For menopausal symptoms, clinical trials have used standardized extracts containing 8-PN, typically around 500 mg daily, showing efficacy over 4 to 12 weeks. Extracts standardized for prenylflavonoids (especially 8-PN) are preferred for consistent effects. Daily dosing with meals is common, although specific timing relative to food or other supplements has not been firmly established. While specific upper limits have not been firmly established, it is advisable to adhere to the dosages used in clinical trials and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. Due to the potential for hormonal effects, exceeding recommended dosages is not advised.

FAQs

Is hops extract safe long-term?

Limited long-term data exist; short to medium-term use appears safe, but caution is advised in hormone-sensitive conditions. Consult a healthcare provider for extended use.

How soon do benefits appear?

Symptom relief in menopause typically emerges within 4 weeks, with increasing effect up to 12 weeks. Individual responses may vary.

Can hops extract replace hormone therapy?

It may be an alternative for mild to moderate symptoms but is less potent than pharmaceutical hormone replacement. Discuss options with your doctor.

Are there any drug interactions?

Potential interactions with sedatives or hormone therapies exist due to phytoestrogenic and mild sedative effects. Consult a healthcare professional.

Who should avoid hops extract?

Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers or who are pregnant should avoid use unless supervised by a healthcare provider due to potential hormonal effects.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27105715/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis included multiple RCTs and demonstrated a significant reduction in hot flash frequency and severity with hops extract compared to placebo (p < 0.05). The effect sizes were clinically relevant, with consistent findings across studies, suggesting hops extract is effective for managing menopausal vasomotor symptoms. Limitations include variability in extract standardization and study durations.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8868281/ – This narrative review summarized in vitro and in vivo evidence of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hops prenylflavonoids. It highlighted bioavailability challenges and synergistic effects, emphasizing the potential for chronic disease prevention but noted the need for more clinical trials to confirm these effects in humans. The review underscores the complex interplay of hops compounds and their potential health benefits.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-health-benefits-of-hops-89058 – This article provides a general overview of the health benefits of hops, including its potential to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, and alleviate menopausal symptoms. It highlights the presence of compounds like xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin, which contribute to these effects. While informative, it is not a primary research source and should be considered as background information.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00345 – This study investigates the antioxidant properties of hops compounds, focusing on their ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress. It provides detailed chemical analyses of various prenylflavonoids and their mechanisms of action. The research contributes to understanding the potential of hops in preventing chronic diseases related to oxidative damage.
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.06.25.21259514v2.full-text – This randomized controlled crossover study (n=19 healthy males) found that hops extract modulated gut peptides related to satiety, suggesting potential metabolic benefits. Statistically significant changes in hormone levels and appetite ratings were observed. The small sample size and single-dose design limit generalizability, but the findings indicate a promising role for hops in appetite regulation.