Phytochemical and Ethnopharmacological Review of Humulus lupulus L. on Its Traditional Uses and Biomedical Potential

Oluwafemi Shittu Bakare ^1*, Alonge Oluwatominsin Mary ¹

This review describes hops' traditional medicinal uses and their emerging biomedical applications, emphasizing their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive potential.

Abstract

Background: Hops, derived from Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabinaceae), have been used in traditional medicine for treating various complaints. This review explores the morphological, phytochemical, and ethnopharmacological aspects of hops, summarizing key findings from preclinical and clinical research and providing a critical appraisal of their traditional use and pharmacologic characteristics. The primary aim is to evaluate the botanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological properties of hops and their traditional and modern applications, particularly in managing menopausal symptoms and potential chemopreventive activities. Methods: This review synthesizes data from various studies on hops, including preclinical and clinical research, in vitro and in vivo investigations, and traditional medicinal uses. It also examines the sedative activity and other pharmacological effects of hop extracts. Discussion: Hop extracts have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-lipoperoxidation activities. In vitro studies suggest that hops possess antiangiogenetic, antiproliferative, and apoptotic effects, indicating potential chemopreventive properties. Hop terpene phenolics, crucial for beer flavoring, have garnered interest in biomedical research. Notably, prenylated chalcones like xanthohumol exhibit cancer chemopreventive activity, and 8-prenylnaringenin is recognized as a potent phytoestrogen. Conclusion: Hops hold promise for various medicinal applications, supported by both traditional use and scientific research. While compounds like xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin show significant potential, further studies are necessary to fully understand their biomedical applications and to harness their benefits effectively.

Keywords: Humulus lupulus, phytochemicals, traditional medicine, pharmacological properties, chemoprevention

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