Hops

• May promote restful sleep.
• Has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Hops, or humulus lupulus cannabaceae, is a plant that can be found in Asia, Europe and North America. Female plants provide strobiles, which are flowers that contain the medicinal properties of the herb. Farmers harvest hops in early autumn when they are at their peak. These plants are tall and can reach over 20 feet in height.

Many people don’t realize that hops are used for more than just making beer. Hops can be used to aid digestion, but its most common use is as a tension reliever. This herb soothes the nerves and relaxes the muscles. It may be taken as an anxiety reliever or used to encourage a good night’s sleep. In addition, it may be used as a food and is thought to enhance normal nervous system function. Each Nature’s Sunshine capsule contains 250 mg of hops.