The bitter principle in the Hop proves one of the most potent vegetable bitters obtainable. Extracts of the Hop have been shown to have anti-microbial activities against the Gram-positive bacterial (Bacillus subtillis and Staphylococcus aureus) and the fungus (Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigtale) Study was done by Drs. Langezall, Chandra & Scheffer in 12/92. Other studies have also supported these findings of Hops inhibiting bacterial growth.

Despite their name, hops have a calming effect on the body. They are used to relieve gas and cramps by soothing muscle spasms. A Russian study in 3/89 by Drs. Krivenko, Potebnia and Loiko, reported treatment of chronic gastritis and angiocholitis with Hops being recommended 3 times daily before meals.

Recent studies found Hops may help against CANCER. Donald Buhler, an agricultural chemist and lead researcher at Oregon State University states "We have treated human breast, colon and ovarian cells that were cancerous with concentrations of hops (flavonoids) that were not harmful to normal cells and found that some of the hop flavonoids were toxic to the cancer cells." Studies indicate that compounds found in Hops, called flavodoids, helped inhibit an enzyme called cytochrome P450 that can activate the cancer process. These studies were reported in Seattle at the meeting of the international Society of Toxicology, 1998.

Natural Slumber. There are a number of ways of helping you to get to sleep. As reported by Wendy Bristow, British Airways High Life 07/00, "Tea made from hop flowers and pillows packed with the hop grains have been used to help people sleep for centuries."

Healing. Interestingly enough, records also note hops were used by the ancient Jews while in captivity in Babylon mentioning sicera ex lupis confectam, a strong drink made from hops that was believed to alleviate leprosy.

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Catnip Nepeta faassenii Catmint (the proper English name) is good for relieving both menstrual difficulties and also helping with insomnia. (Cats love it, too.)

Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile is valued for it's antibacterial, antiseptic and disinfectant properties. It is also known for anti-inflammatory properties and of course, in tea!

Ginger Zingiber Officinale This herb has been known to help with the respiratory and digestive systems and with the prevention of contagious diseases. Ginger is also widely used in cooking.

Lemon Grass Cymbopogon Citratus is well known for improving circulation, digestion and getting the oxygen flowing. Adds a nice hint of lemon flavor.

Peppermint Mentha piperita has been used by many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Chinese and American Indians, no doubt because of its extremely useful health-promoting properties. It's excellent for the digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems and is also an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic herb.