Зміст
Many people associate hops only with beer production. Meanwhile, its medicinal properties have already been used in ancient times. It was even believed that he possesses magical powers. Today, hop cones are used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The substances they contain make it easier to fall asleep, have a calming effect, improve digestion and protect against urinary tract infections.
Hops also help remove bacteria, viruses, and fungi from the body and are effective in fighting acne and dandruff. Check out how to use the beneficial properties of hops.
What are hops and what does it contain?
Common hop is a climber from the hemp family. It is often grown in gardens as an ornamental plant, and grows wild in humid forests. Medicinal raw materials are cones, that is, inflorescence. They contain valuable essential oil containing up to 150 biologically active substances. First, these are flavonoids, which are responsible for removing free radicals and fighting inflammation in the body.
Hops in cosmetics
Hops are used in the cosmetics industry for a reason. Cone extract is added to shampoos, hair conditioners, creams, masks and skin lotions. This is because it has a great effect on the condition of the hair and skin. Hops can also be used to make a nourishing rinse that prevents hair loss, dandruff and even athlete’s foot.
The medicinal properties of hops
Hops are a natural sedative (suppressing the activity of the cerebral cortex) and induce sleep. Calms the nerves, helps fight anxiety, and also reduces sexual desire. It also contains phytoestrogens, substances that resemble female sex hormones. Due to this, it soothes unpleasant symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes. Hops are also effective against indigestion. Stimulates the secretion of gastric juice, soothes flatulence and acidosis, stimulates the intestines, increases appetite. The substances contained in hops reduce the risk of tooth decay and inflammation in the mouth. Hops are also recommended for diseases of the urinary tract – it has a diuretic and antibacterial effect. Hop compresses are also useful for root pain,
Research is currently underway on the use of hop extract to combat viral pneumonia, herpes virus and certain fungi. It turns out that hops have properties that are similar to many antibiotics, and their inclusion in therapy can speed up treatment and protect against antibiotic resistance.
How to use hops?
Hops are available in pharmacies as a dietary supplement or oil, with a few drops of which can be added to drinks or food. However, the healthiest is the use of the infusion of dried cones, preparation is very easy. Simply pour a teaspoon into a glass of boiling water and leave covered for 10 minutes. The drink can be drunk up to four times a day, consumed in the evening, to help you sleep.
It is also worth making a tincture of hops. The cones should be filled with 40% alcohol (so that the volume fraction is 1: 3). The jar or bottle should be stored in a cool and dark place, after 2–3 weeks the liquid should be filtered. You can use 10 ml of tincture at a time.
