Hops (Humulus lupulus) are fast-growing perennial vines native to Europe and parts of North America. They produce coiled, climbing stems that can reach 20–25 feet in height during a single growing season. The female plants develop cone-like flowers in late summer, which are aromatic and used for medicinal and brewing purposes. Hops thrive in open forest edges, hillsides, prairies, and riparian areas where they receive ample sun and support for climbing. Leaves are large and lobed, providing shade and structural beauty along the trellis. Historically, hops have been used in teas, tinctures, and poultices to calm the nervous system, ease digestive discomfort, and promote restful sleep. Their growth habit makes them both an ornamental and functional plant in gardens, while the cones continue to attract pollinators and provide therapeutic benefits.
| Medicinal Species | Humulus lupulus |
|---|---|
| Tastes | bitter, acrid/pungent |
| Organ Systems | digestive, nervous, muscular, constitution |
| Thermal Nature | cool |
| Moisture | drying |
| Parts Used | roots, stems, leaves, flowers |
| Preparations | decoction, extract, tea/infusion, tincture, powder |
| Organs and Tissue | stomach, muscle & connective tissue, blood |