(Humulus lupulus)

Hops, a natural preservative has been used in the brewing of beer and contributes to its distinctive flavor and aroma. But Hops has also been used to fill a muslin pillow to help provide non drug-induced sleep, calm the nerves and prevent nightmares. Hops have been found to be an excellent nervine that is fast acting and will produce sleep when insomnia is a problem. It has been used to treat jaundice, increase bile secretion, and help tone up the liver and gallbladder. Hops have a sedative effect and serve to calm and soothe the nerves thus, relieving muscle spasms. It also relieves pain and reduces fevers. A poultice of Hops soothes inflammations, including boils, relieves the pain of facial neuralgias, sciatica, other rheumatic pains and even helps reduce the pain of a toothache. Hops are also used for their anti-biotic properties, which are beneficial for sore throats, bronchitis, infections, high fevers, delirium, earaches, and pain.

Primary uses: Here are just a few of the maladies Hops may provide relief from:

• Delirium
• High Fevers
• Neuralgia
• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Pain of RA
• Sciatica