Humulus lupulus Cannabidaceae

The yellow powder on the cone of the hop flower contains the plant’s active ingredient, lupulin. Dried hops should be stored in a cold, dry place and used within three months because they lose their efficacy and healing power after this time.

An infusion of dried hops drunk just before bedtime acts as a mild sedative and is prescribed as a treatment for insomnia. Add the flowers to any tea and the mixture will aid digestion and stimulate the appetite — useful when convalescing after flu. It combines well with valerian, which reduces tension and anxiety, and the leaves of the passion flower. Other good herbs to mix with hops for this purpose are balm, catnip, chamomile, lime flowers, orange blossom, skullcap, vervain and wood betony. A cupful of an infusion of a mixture of some of these herbs, drunk regularly three times a day, should reduce the state of anxiety.