Botanical Library
Hops
Holistic tradition
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At a glance
Where it's from
Native to Europe, western Asia and North America.
Look & taste
Papery green cone-shaped flowers of a climbing vine. Bitter, resinous
Signature compounds
Bitter acids (humulone, lupulone) and volatile oils.
Traditionally used for
A traditional bitter and sedative herb for sleep and sluggish digestion.
In Canada, we can say...
Traditionally used in Herbal Medicine to help relieve restlessness and nervousness (calmative), as a sleep aid during times of mental stress, and as an aromatic bitter to aid digestion.
Did you know?
Hop pillows - stuffed with dried hops - were a folk remedy for insomnia, reportedly used by King George III.
History & natural history
Best known for brewing beer; long used in 'sleep pillows' for restlessness.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Traditionally used in Herbal Medicine to help relieve restlessness and nervousness (calmative), as a sleep aid during times of mental stress, and as an aromatic bitter to aid digestion.
How to use it
As a tea or capsule before bed, often with valerian.
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Request Hops →Side effects & safety
Check with a practitioner if pregnant or breastfeeding. May cause drowsiness - avoid with alcohol or sedatives.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.