Humulus lupulus

Hops are derived from the hop plant, Humulus lupus, a climber often found in swamps and damp hedges. It is extremely well-known as an ingredient in beer and most hops are now obtained from cultivated plants. Technically, hops refer to the cone-like fruit (known as strobiles) of the hops plant. In beer, it imparts a bitterness to the beverage and it has been used for this purpose since the 8th or 9th century in Bavaria and other parts of Europe.

Hops contains a large number of plant substances including volatile oils (1 to 3%), a resin containing the bitter principles humulone and lupulinic acid. Its history of uses as a herbal remedy is probably not as long as its role in beer making. As a medicine, hops have been used traditionally for mild anxiety and is considered to be particularly helpful with sleep problems.

Dormeasan from A. Vogel contains extracts of freshly harvested Valerian root and hops.