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.

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.