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Hops Organic |
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Hops Organic
HOPS - Organic
Humulus lupulus
History and Folklore
Hops is one of the most widely cultivated plants, yet one rarely comes across them in the wild, even though they are well adapted to the northern climes. It is uncertain where exactly hops came from, but it has been closely associated with the art of brewing for a very long time. At one time many different bitter herbs were concocted into beer, but during the 16th century a law was passed in Germany that decreed it unlawful to use any other herbs but hops for the brewing of beer. In those days brewing was generally the domain of monks and it is not surprising that they lobbied for the use of hops in beer, since it is a natural anaphrodisiac, a quality that greatly helped to suppress their corporeal urges. Another advantage of Hops is, that it acts as a natural preservative and brewing beer with it meant that it could be made lighter (in terms of alcohol content) without the risk of spoilage.
Hops is botanically related to the stinging nettle and to hemp. Its leaves are covered in fine hairs, which are known to frequently cause contact dermatitis and may irritate the eyes if they are inadvertently brought into contact.
Medicinal Uses:
Hops is mostly used as a sedative and recommended for restlessness, insomnia and nervous complaints. It is particularly useful for nervous conditions of the digestive system as the bitter principles combined with the calming effect can ease nervous indigestion. The bitter principles also act on the liver. Furthermore, Hops is a diuretic and is used to reduce oedematous swellings or to help flush metabolic waste from the system in certain types of arthritis and gout. A pillow stuffed with hop flowers can be used to aid sleeplessness. Hops has estrogenic compounds, which among chronic users of beer may result in enlarged breasts.
CAUTION
Hops should be avoided in cases of depression since it has a tendency to exacerbate the condition.
Magical Uses:
Herb pillows stuffed with hops may be used for dream work. It may be used in incense. In Scandinavian countries the hop strobilus is regarded as a symbol of fertility. Hops cleanses and removes obstructions while helping to focus and calm the mind.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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