Hops - Humulus lupulus

Alternative names: Beerflower

Parts used: Flowers

Actions and qualities: Helps treat insomnia, anxiety, and hot flashes. Hops can also act as a preventative aid for cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Specific uses: Most commonly used in beer brewing, it also makes a delicious tea but should only be brewed for a short time to avoid bitterness. It can also be used in a bath soak.

Contraindications: People with depression should use hops with caution and consult a physician before use. It should not be mixed with sleeping pills and should be avoided by pregnant and nursing mothers and children under two.

History and lore: It was discovered as a sleep aid when it was noticed that hops harvesters became intensely sleepy when picking the flowers.