Hops Essential Oil

Latin name Humulus lupulus – Family species Cannabaceae

Hops — also referred to as European Hop, Lupulus, and Common Hop. Hops and its relative Cannabis sativa (marijuana / hemp) were formerly in the Moraceae (Mulberrys) plant family, but can now be found under the Cannabaceae (Hemps) family.

“The amber strobile oil has a rich herbaceous-leathery aroma used in perfumes, lotions, tobacco, and condiments. The scent has a direct sedative action on the nervous system and is used for restless tension-headaches, stress, and anxiety-related illness, including some sexual problems, but can aggravate depression. Because of its estrogen content, it is an anaphrodisiac for men.” –Crabtree & Evelyn Fragrant Herbal

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Pale yellow to amber red
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Spicy, sweet, rich, herby

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Plant
Parts Used – Buds, Flowers
Countries of Origin – France, Britain, Germany, Russia, Spain, United States (California and Washington), New Zealand
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

Humulene, myrcene, caryophyllene, farnesene

Applications and Uses

Used in aromatherapy and also found in the food industry, tobacco and pharmaceutical products, and perfumery (fougère and chypre types).

Hops oil blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

Recommended to be used in very small quantities and infrequently if at all.
Sensitization can occur.
Sources say hops oil should be avoided if suffering from depression as it can supposedly aggravate the condition.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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