| HOPS
(Humulus
Lupulus) A decoction of the tops cleanses the blood, cures the venereal disease, and all kinds of scabs. A perennial climber with Vine-like leaves. The clusters of scaly-headed flowers of a pale greenish-yellow are female flowers; male flowers are tiny and white. Where to find it: Cultivated in gardens and also found wild in hedgerows. Flowering time: Mid to late summer. Astrology. It is under the dominion of Mars. Medicinal virtues: It will open obstructions of the liver and spleen, cleansethe blood, loosen the belly, cleanse the reins from gravel and provoke the urine. The decoction of the tops cures the itch and breakings out of the body, tetters, ringworms, spreading sores, rnorphew and all discolourings of the skin.The decoction of the flowers and tops helps to expel poison. Half a dram (89o mg) of the seed in powder, taken in drink, kills worms in the body, brings down women's courses and expels urine. A syrup made of the juice and sugar cures yellow jaundice and eases the headache that comes of heat. Modern uses: A bitter aromatic tonic, with sedative and diuretic properties. The flowers contain a natural antibiotic. Hops will produce sleep when nothing else will. A pillow stuffed with Hops is the country remedy for inducing a good night's sleep. Poultices made from the flowers are used for boils and painful swellings. An infusion of i oz (28 g) of the flowers to i pt (568 ml) of water acts as a bitter tonic and will rectify indigestion and improve appetite. The herb stimulates oestrogen production and in men curbs excessive sexual desire and is a remedy for spermatorrhoea. A tincture is available from herbalists. The dose is 5-2o drops. The use of Hops is contraindicated in depression. |