Hops

Hops contains naturally sedating compounds such as humulone and lupulone, which interact with GABA receptors in the brain—the same calming neurotransmitters targeted by many sleep aids. These constituents help slow racing thoughts, reduce restlessness, and prepare the body for deep, sustained sleep. It’s especially helpful when emotional stress shows up as tension in the body.

Hops is one of the few herbs rich in phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that can bind to estrogen receptors in the body. This makes it a valuable ally for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, helping to ease hormonal fluctuations that may contribute to insomnia, hot flashes, or mood changes.

Traditionally used to ease cramping and tension in the pelvic bowl, Hops has a gentle antispasmodic action on smooth muscle. This makes it useful for relieving uterine cramps, digestive bloating, and even the subtle grip of anxiety that settles in the belly and hips.

With a strong bitter profile, Hops stimulates the production of digestive juices—bile, enzymes, and hydrochloric acid—when taken before meals. This action supports optimal digestion, particularly in cases of sluggish metabolism, bloating, or poor fat absorption. In herbal tradition, bitters are also linked to mood regulation and grounding.