Hops are a native British plant, which were used in brewing in Europe since the 11^th century, though not traditionally used in English ale. Hops contain a high proportion of oestrogen and, as a result, too much beer can lead to a loss of libido in men.

The hop is a native British plant and it is the flowers on the female plant, known as strobiles which are used medicinally. The strobiles are best used fresh for insomnia.

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Volatile oil, valerianic acid, oestrogenic substances, tannins, bitter principle, luparmaric acid

The hop plant is traditionally used as a sedative, anaphrodisiac, restoring tonic for the nervous system, bitter digestive stimulant and a diuretic

Infusion This is traditionally used for insomnia. Add 2 teaspoons of fresh hops to a cup of boiling water and leave to infuse for 5 minutes. Freshly dried or freeze dried can be used.

Tincture This is traditionally used as a sedative for anxiety and nervous tension. Take up to 2ml, three times a day.

Compress This is traditionally used for varicose ulcers using a pad soaked in the infusion or dilute tincture.

Capsules This is traditionally used as an appetite stimulant and taken before meals. Do not use continuously for more than a few days

Hops act as a mild depressant and therefore should be avoided in depression. Do not exceed the stated dose.